Attacks on UN peacekeepers in Lebanon ‘unacceptable’, says Italy’s Meloni

In Beirut, Meloni and Lebanon’s Najib Mikati urge ‘diplomatic solution’ as Hezbollah pledges new phase of war against Israel.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has called for the strengthening of the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Lebanon, known as UNIFIL, during a visit to Beirut.

The premier decried attacks against UNIFIL, whose forces have been targeted by Israeli troops in recent weeks.

“Only by strengthening UNIFIL while maintaining its impartiality will we be able to turn the page,” Meloni said during a joint news conference with Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati on Friday.

“I repeat that I consider targeting UNIFIL is unacceptable,” she added in reference to Israeli attacks involving the mission’s positions and troops. “I ask once again that all parties strive to ensure at all times that the safety of each of these soldiers is guaranteed.”

Meloni, who is regarded as a strong ally of Israel, is the first head of state or government to visit Lebanon since an escalation between Israel and Hezbollah last month. She said that after her visit to Beirut, she would hold talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.