Four Italian blue helmets of the United Nations mission in southern Lebanon (FINL) were injured this Friday, according to the Italian media and later confirmed by the UN. The soldiers involved, who reportedly suffered only minor injuries, were in Shama’s basewhich had already suffered various attacks in recent days.
“This is the third attack on this UNIFIL base in Shama in a week,” UNIFIL explained. The incident also occurs “in the middle of iintense bombing and ground skirmishes in the Shama and Naqoura areas in recent days, increasing the tensions in the region,” he added.
The information has sparked a harsh response from the Italian authorities. “I have learned with deep indignation and concern the news of new attacks against the Italian headquarters of UNIFIL […] It is unacceptable. I renew my call for the parties to ensure the safety of soldiers of this mission and collaborate to identify those responsible in the shortest time possible,” said the prime minister, Giorgia Meloni.
According to Antonio Tajanithe head of the Italian Foreign Ministry, the missiles could have been launched by Hezbollah. “They should have been two missiles which, according to what is seen, were launched by Hezbollah. Once again, what is happening is unacceptable. Just as we told Israelto pay maximum attention, we now say this firmly to Hezbollah,” Tajani added.
