Tensions have escalated in southern Lebanon after an Italian convoy serving with the UNIFIL peacekeeping mission came under fire. A Lince armoured vehicle, travelling from the base in Shama to Beirut, was hit roughly two kilometres after departure. The gunfire damaged the vehicle’s tyres and bumper, forcing the convoy to turn back immediately. No Italian personnel were injured.

The incident prompted a strong response from the Italian government. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni described it as “completely unacceptable” that UN personnel should be put at risk, warning that the episode may constitute a violation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701. Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani also condemned the attack, summoned the Israeli ambassador and stressed that “Italian troops must not be touched.” Defence Minister Guido Crosetto called on the United Nations to urgently clarify what happened and ensure stronger protection for the Italian contingent.

The attack comes against an already fragile backdrop. Just days ago, a rocket struck the base in Shama, while in November 2024 another attack left four Italian soldiers injured. Italy currently has around 1,200 troops deployed as part of UNIFIL, the peacekeeping mission established in 1978 and significantly expanded after the 2006 war between Israel and Hezbollah.