Four Italian soldiers sustained minor injuries when two rockets struck a UNIFIL peacekeeping base in southern Lebanon, the Italian government reported on Friday. Officials strongly condemned the attack, which comes amid heightened tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border.
The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) monitors hostilities in the area, a region that has seen escalating violence in recent weeks, as Israeli troops and Hezbollah fighters clash.
Details of the Attack on UNIFIL Base
- Incident:
- Two 122mm rockets struck the UNIFIL base in Chama village.
- The first rocket hit a bunker.
- The second rocket damaged a room near the international military police headquarters.
- Damage:
- The explosions caused infrastructure damage to the base.
- Shattered glass injured four Italian soldiers.
- Casualties:
- The injuries were minor, with no fatalities reported.
Italian Government Reactions to UNIFIL Attack
Italian officials expressed outrage at the attack and emphasized the need for accountability:
- Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni:
- Called the incident “unacceptable.”
- Urged local parties to ensure the safety of UNIFIL soldiers.
- Stressed the importance of identifying those responsible.
- Defence Minister Guido Crosetto:
- Criticized the repeated targeting of UNIFIL bases.
- Highlighted Italy’s long-standing commitment to the peacekeeping mission despite the risks.
- Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani:
- Suggested that Hezbollah might be responsible for the attack.
Context and Background of UNIFIL Operations
The attack is the latest in a series of incidents affecting UNIFIL forces amid escalating regional conflict:
- Recent Clashes:
- Tensions have surged since late September, when Israel launched a ground offensive against Hezbollah fighters along the border.
- The Israel-Lebanon border has seen intense hostilities, with multiple attacks targeting UNIFIL.
- UNIFIL’s Challenges:
- The multinational force consists of 10,000 personnel, including over 1,000 Italians.
- Despite growing threats, UNIFIL has refused Israeli calls to evacuate southern Lebanon.
- Allegations:
- While Hezbollah has been accused of orchestrating many attacks, Israel has also faced allegations of targeting UNIFIL bases—charges it denies.
Italy’s Role in UNIFIL
- Italy has been a significant contributor to the mission, providing more than 1,000 soldiers.
- Italian officials have reiterated their commitment to maintaining peace in the volatile region despite growing risks to their personnel.
Investigation Underway into UNIFIL Strike
An investigation into the attack is currently underway, according to Italian sources. The focus remains on identifying the perpetrators and ensuring accountability.
The incident underscores the increasingly dangerous environment for peacekeeping forces in southern Lebanon, raising urgent concerns about their safety and the need for de-escalation in the region.