Italy Commits to Future Role After UNIFIL Mission Ends

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani described the agreement between Israel and Lebanon as a definite step forward, expressing his country's readiness to "fulfill its role in any future international mission that may be established after the conclusion of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) mission."

Speaking at the Dubrovnik Forum, Tajani said he had contacted the Italian embassy in Beirut, confirming that "the signs are positive and that the current phase requires translating the agreement into practical steps on the ground."

He added that Rome, in coordination with France, is prepared to contribute to reconstruction efforts and support the establishment of stronger Lebanese institutions capable of safeguarding the country's sovereignty. Tajani noted that implementing the agreement will take time, but reaching the signing stage is an important milestone.

The minister reaffirmed Italy's support for the diplomatic process and its willingness to deploy its armed forces in an international mission following UNIFIL, alongside continuing to train the Lebanese armed forces through the existing bilateral mission. He emphasized that Lebanon remains a priority for Rome.

Tajani further stated that the agreement reached in Washington between Israel and Lebanon does not represent a victory for Hezbollah, which opposes the deal because one of its objectives is to reduce its influence and work towards disarmament.

He pointed out that the success of the agreement will also depend on Iran's stance and whether it supports the deal. Tajani mentioned that Hezbollah has already organized protests against the agreement and stressed that the group cannot continue to operate militarily outside the legitimacy and institutions of Lebanon, as it has always posed a threat to peace and to Lebanon itself.

He also noted that Lebanese President Joseph Aoun welcomed the Italian-French initiative to establish an international presence in Lebanon after the conclusion or restructuring of the UNIFIL mission, describing it as a sincere expression of international commitment to supporting Lebanon's sovereignty and stability.