Four Italian Peacekeepers Injured in Lebanon Amid Increasing Violence and Argentina’s Withdrawal from UNIFIL

Four Italian peacekeepers were injured by rockets in Lebanon, likely fired by Hezbollah. Italian government officials condemned the attacks, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding UNIFIL forces. Argentina has announced its withdrawal from the peacekeeping mission, amid ongoing violence and casualties in the region caused by Israeli military actions.

In southern Lebanon’s Chamaa region, four Italian peacekeepers from the United Nations Interim Forces in Lebanon (UNIFIL) sustained injuries following a rocket attack that struck their base. The incident involved two 120-mm rockets, likely fired by Hezbollah or its affiliates, which hit a logistics center and a bunker, resulting in no life-threatening injuries for the peacekeepers, who are currently under medical care.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed her outrage regarding the attack, emphasizing the unacceptability of such aggression against UN personnel. Furthermore, Defense Minister Guido Crosetto confirmed his intention to engage with his Lebanese counterpart and the Israeli Minister of Defense to ensure enhanced safety for peacekeeping forces in the area. Italy’s troop commitment to UNIFIL stands at 1,044 soldiers, making it the second-largest contributor after Indonesia.

The security situation remains precarious, with the current incident marking the third attack on the Chamaa base within the week. Since the onset of hostilities on September 30, UNIFIL has faced an increase in assaults, resulting in over 25 injuries in recent months. Notably, Argentina has announced its withdrawal from the mission, being the sole country to do so since the escalation, leaving behind just three of its troops.

This turbulent backdrop unfolds amid sustained Israeli military operations that have resulted in numerous casualties, with Israeli airstrikes recently reported in Beirut’s southern suburbs. The humanitarian toll in Lebanon is severe, with over 3,583 fatalities and more than 15,000 injuries recorded since October 8, 2023, attributed primarily to the ongoing conflict.

The UNIFIL was established in 1978 to maintain peace and stability along the Lebanon-Israel border, and its mandate was expanded following the 2006 Israel-Hezbollah war. The mission faced a resurgence of violence starting with Israel’s invasion of Lebanon on September 30, 2023, amidst heightened regional tensions. Recent months have seen numerous attacks on peacekeeping forces, raising concerns regarding their safety and effectiveness in fulfilling their mandate. Argentina’s withdrawal represents a significant shift within the peacekeeping contingent that has been facing rising hostility from militant groups, particularly Hezbollah.

The recent rocket attack on Italian UNIFIL peacekeepers underscores the escalating violence and instability affecting the mission in Lebanon. With nations like Argentina withdrawing their contributions, the role of UNIFIL as a stabilizing force is increasingly challenged. The ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis highlight the urgent need for dialogue and a renewed commitment to peace and security in the region.

Original Source: www.al-monitor.com