ITALY has pledged to play a crucial role in preserving the fragile ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel, according to statements made by the country’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Antonio Tajani.
Tajani’s comments were made during a meeting on Friday with newly elected Lebanese President Joseph Aoun at the presidential palace in Beirut. The discussions centred around the importance of stability and peace in the region, with a particular focus on the ongoing conflict between Lebanon and Israel.
Tajani emphasised the significance of Lebanon’s presidential election, stating that it was not only vital for the country’s peace but also for regional stability across the Middle East.
He explained that Italy would assist in strengthening the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, especially through its involvement in the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).
The country’s soldiers, stationed as part of UNIFIL, will help ensure that the ceasefire remains intact and that the tensions between the two nations do not escalate further.
The Italian Foreign Minister acknowledged that the election of President Joseph Aoun marks a turning point for Lebanon, strengthening bilateral relations between Italy and Lebanon on both economic and commercial fronts.
Tajani expressed Italy’s continued commitment to working closely with the newly elected president, noting that Aoun is a “friend of Italy.” This positive sentiment underscores Italy’s desire to foster stronger diplomatic ties with Lebanon in the years to come.
In response, President Aoun expressed his appreciation for Italy’s ongoing support of Lebanon, particularly through its involvement in UNIFIL.
He thanked the Italian government for its assistance and reaffirmed Lebanon’s commitment to ensuring security and stability in the southern region, where much of the tension between Lebanon and Israel has been concentrated.
Aoun also acknowledged that the election of the new president is an essential step in rebuilding Lebanon’s governance and national insttutions.
Once Lebanon’s constitutional institutions are restored, Aoun stressed that efforts would be focused on reviving the country’s economic and poitical systems.
He expressed optimism that Lebanon would play a more prominent role in the region, strengthening its ties with Europe and Mediterranean nations, especially as the country works towards a more stable and prosperous future.
The meeting between Aoun and Tajani came amid growing concerns about Israel’s continued violations of the ceasefire agreement.
Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati had earlier demanded that Israel halt its actions, particularly in southern Lebanon, where Israeli forces had been conducting military operations and withdrawing from Lebanese territory.
Mikati called for an immediate stop to the Israeli violations of the ceasefire, including attacks on Lebanese towns, the destruction of homes, and violations of Lebanese airspace.
Mikati’s remarks were made during a meeting with US envoy Amos Hochstein, where he reiterated the need for a clear timetable for the completion of Israel’s withdrawal from southern Lebanon.
The deadline for the withdrawal, as stipulated by the ceasefire agreement, is within 60 days, and Lebanon’s government is keen to see this process fully implemented.
Hochstein, who had met with both Mikati and Lebanese House Speaker Nabih Berri, stated that Israel’s withdrawal would continue until all Israeli forces had vacated Lebanese territory.
While there is no certainty about the timeframe, both the Lebanese and international communities are closely monitoring the situation, hoping that the ceasefire will hold and that the region can avoid further conflict.
Lebanon has long faced challenges due to the complex political and military dynamics in the region, particularly with regard to its southern border with Israel. Tensions often flare up, and despite numerous international peacekeeping efforts, the situation remains precarious.
The role of Italy, through UNIFIL and its diplomatic engagement, is seen as a crucial factor in maintaining peace and security in this volatile area.
