Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni
on Tuesday said Italy is committed to working with allies to
stabilize the border between Israel and Lebanon and stressed
that a regional de-escalation is "necessary and urgent".
"Italy will continue to work with its allies to stabilize the
border between Israel and Lebanon and for the displaced to
return home.
"A de-escalation at the regional level is urgent and necessary
and Italy will continue to play its part also as president of
the G7", Meloni noted.
The premier said she is "following closely the dramatic
situation in Lebanon" and is in constant contact with the
ministers of foreign affairs and defence.
"The protection of civilians remains the priority as well as
guaranteeing the security of the military of the Italian UNIFIL
contingent present in the South" of Lebanon, Meloni said in a
note.
Defence Minister Guido Crosetto late on Monday said Italian
military personnel had reached "protected positions" and were at
the moment "as a precaution in bunkers".
"UNIFIL is not a direct target of attacks", he stressed, while
noting however that the "escalation of the level and intensity"
of fighting "makes the situation delicate".
Italy has over 1,000 members of the military deployed with
UNIFIL while approximately 200 others are in Beirut as part of
the Italian Bilateral Military Mission in Lebanon (MIBIL).
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED © Copyright ANSA
