A convoy of United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) vehicles drive in the Marjayoun area in southern Lebanon, to accompany Lebanese Red Cross ambulances on Nov 8, 2024, amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hezbollah. (Credit: AFP)
BEIRUT — Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati assured Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Saturday that Lebanon is committed to investigating the “unacceptable” attack on UNIFIL forces that injured four Italian peacekeepers, according to a statement from the Grand Serail.
Italy’s Defense Ministry reported on Friday that four Italian peacekeepers sustained minor injuries when two rockets struck a UNIFIL base in southern Lebanon. Following the incident, Italy's Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani attributed the attack to Hezbollah.
In a call with Meloni, Mikati expressed solidarity with Italy and wished the injured soldiers a swift recovery. He condemned the attack, calling it "unacceptable," and promised a thorough investigation, with findings to be shared with Italy. Mikati also pledged that Lebanon would take all necessary measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
“I hope this unfortunate event will not affect your determination to support Lebanon or your crucial role in helping us achieve a cease-fire,” Mikati added.
Cease-fire talks have been ongoing to end the 13-month war in Lebanon between Hezbollah and Israel.
In the past few weeks since Israel launched its ground offensive against southern Lebanon, the U.N. force recorded more than 30 incidents resulting in material damage or injury to peacekeepers, including around 20 caused by Israeli fire or action, according to UNIFIL spokesperson Andrea Tenenti.