BEIRUT, Oct. 19 – Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni visited Lebanon on Friday to convey a message of support to the Lebanese people who are embroiled in the Hezbollah-Israeli conflict.
In a joint press conference after meeting with Lebanese caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati, Meloni said her presence in Lebanon aims to express solidarity and closeness to civilians suffering from the consequences of the conflict.
“Italy, like all international partners, has been calling for a 21-day ceasefire for weeks and months,” she said, noting that “the Lebanese prime minister and Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri have agreed to this proposal.”
The Italian prime minister called for the full and immediate implementation of the UN Security Council Resolution 1701, urging all parties to ensure the safety and security of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) and enhance the capacity of the Lebanese army.
“The targeting of UNIFIL is unacceptable, and I call again for all parties to work to ensure the safety and security of these soldiers,” she said.
Meloni also called for “supporting and strengthening Lebanese institutions,” adding that “Lebanon is suffering, and the presence of functioning institutions is essential for Lebanon to be able to defend its interests.”
For his part, Mikati urged Israel to fully commit to a ceasefire, respect international law, implement UN Security Council Resolution 1701, and cease any violations of Lebanese sovereignty.
