Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni Visits Lebanon to Show Solidarity Amidst Conflict
Beirut: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni visited Lebanon on Friday to express support for the Lebanese people amid the ongoing Hezbollah-Israeli conflict. In a joint press conference with Lebanese caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati, Meloni emphasized the importance of solidarity with civilians affected by the violence, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
Meloni reiterated Italy’s stance, stating, “Italy, like all international partners, has been calling for a 21-day ceasefire for weeks and months,” noting that this proposal has garnered agreement from both Mikati and Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri.
The Prime Minister called for the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701, urging all parties to ensure the safety of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) and enhance the Lebanese army’s capacity. “The targeting of UNIFIL is unacceptable,” she asserted, stressing the need for cooperation to protect peacekeeping forces.
In response, Mikati urged Israel to adhere to a ceasefire, respect international law, and implement the UN resolution while ceasing violations of Lebanese sovereignty. He affirmed Lebanon’s commitment to strengthen its military presence in the south in collaboration with UNIFIL.
Mikati condemned Israel’s requests for UNIFIL to withdraw, labeling such actions as violations of international legitimacy and detrimental to peacekeeping efforts in Lebanon. He expressed hope that Italy would play a constructive role in curbing ongoing aggression against Lebanon.
The visit underscores Italy’s commitment to supporting Lebanese institutions during a time of crisis, highlighting the necessity for functioning governance to defend national interests.
