Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni visited Lebanon on Friday to show solidarity with the Lebanese people and offer Italy's support for the role of UN peacekeeping forces in southern Lebanon, amid heightened tensions in the region. 

Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati welcomed Meloni upon her arrival and expressed gratitude for her visit, particularly during such challenging circumstances. During their meeting, Mikati emphasized the historical and close bilateral relations between Lebanon and Italy, while also discussing key issues concerning the Middle East. 

“We reiterated that a diplomatic solution must take precedence over war, violence, and destruction,” Mikati said following the meeting. He called for Israel’s full commitment to a ceasefire and strict adherence to international law, particularly the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701. 

Mikati stressed that Lebanon’s top priority is achieving a ceasefire and halting the targeting of civilians and the destruction of towns and villages. He reiterated Lebanon's full commitment to all relevant international resolutions, particularly Resolution 1701 as he also expressed Lebanon's readiness to strengthen the presence of the Lebanese army along the southern border to ensure its duties are fully carried out in cooperation with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).

Mikati also voiced his concerns about the threats UNIFIL has been facing, describing them as a “blatant violation of international law.” He called on the international community to stand united against Israel’s actions, which he said undermine UNIFIL’s essential mission in supporting Lebanon and its people.

During their discussions, Mikati thanked Italy for its continuous support of the Lebanese army, aimed at enhancing its capabilities to fulfill its national responsibilities. He also stressed the urgent need for Lebanon to elect a new president, a vital step toward launching economic reforms and reviving the economy with international support.

“Lebanon has paid a high price for external conflicts,” Mikati deplored, urging Lebanese political factions to learn from current events by embracing neutrality from external conflicts. He also emphasized that the sovereignty of the Lebanese state is crucial to solving the country's ongoing issues.

For her part, Meloni praised the role of UNIFIL in maintaining stability and peace in southern Lebanon, highlighting the importance of supporting the Lebanese army to ensure that it can carry out its responsibilities effectively.

"Targeting UNIFIL forces is unacceptable, and we must ensure their security. It is essential to return to UNIFIL’s original mission," Meloni said. She also emphasized the need for the full implementation of Resolution 1701 and called for enhanced capabilities for Lebanon’s security forces.

“Only by strengthening UNIFIL while maintaining its impartiality, we will be able to turn the page”, Meloni said during a joint news conference with her Lebanese counterpart. 

Meloni reaffirmed Italy’s commitment to helping Lebanon navigate its current challenges, stating that "effective institutions are key to defending Lebanon's interests, and Italy is ready to support Lebanon in these efforts."

Addressing broader regional concerns, Meloni said that efforts were underway to achieve a ceasefire in both Gaza and Lebanon, advocating for a 21-day truce to halt hostilities and allow for diplomacy to take root.

She also reiterated Italy's commitment to discussing the issue of refugees in Lebanon at the European level, noting the strain that the refugee crisis has placed on the country.

Following her meeting with Mikati, Meloni headed to Ain el-Tineh for a meeting with Lebanon's Speaker of Parliament, Nabih Berri. Her visit to Lebanon also included meetings with senior military officials and the Italian ambassador, as part of ongoing efforts to reinforce Italy's support for Lebanon amid the escalating conflict.