Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto, speaking from the Palazzo Madama during a joint session of the House of Representatives and Senate Committees on Foreign Affairs and Defense, emphasized the need for proactive planning as United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701 nears expiration. He stated, "With the end of Resolution 1701 approaching, we must first plan for the transition phase and then for the structure of the future international presence, ensuring continuous efforts in Lebanon." He cautioned against losing the current framework, which could create further security gaps and spark new tensions in already troubled southern Lebanon.
Crosetto added, "For these reasons, we are committed to ensuring that a new international initiative succeeds the current UNIFIL mission. This initiative would have a more effective mandate capable of addressing critical issues that have emerged during the implementation of Resolution 1701, thereby contributing concretely to regional stability. I have initiated discussions with my counterparts from major contributing countries and directly with the UN leadership."
He described the efforts of UNIFIL as "commendable," noting that its personnel continue to perform their duties with high efficiency despite significant risks. "We repeatedly engage with their commanders, witnessing their courage, sense of duty, and spirit of sacrifice, along with their determination to aid communities grappling with increasing adversity," he said.
He further commented, "After some encouraging signs, Lebanon's security situation has deteriorated again. The crisis seems to have returned the country to conditions reminiscent of the early 2000s, with increased Israeli military presence in the south and rising operations against Hezbollah and vice versa. The aim appears to be to eliminate the threat posed by the Shiite organization entirely, although this approach comes at a very high cost."
Enzo Amendola, leader of the Italian Democratic Party Coalition, affirmed to "the National News Agency" in Rome, "Italy will not abandon Lebanon because our countries share historical ties and strong friendship. We will continuously work to assist Lebanon."
He also noted that "the Lebanese presence in Italy is always welcomed, and we maintain constant contact with Lebanese officials and their ambassador in Rome, Carla Jazzar."