Italian president condemns Israel attacks on Lebanon, warns of wider war

Italian President Sergio Mattarella on Monday condemned ongoing Israeli attacks on Lebanon as "brutal," warning that the violence is "severely and unjustly" affecting civilians while raising the risk of a wider regional war across the Middle East. Speaking to the Diplomatic Corps accredited to the Italian state, he said the chaos in the region demonstrates how harmful practices spread rapidly and attract followers.

"The chaos in the Middle East is unfortunately clear, serving as a reminder that harmful practices can spread rapidly," Mattarella said. He cited the ongoing conflict in Gaza as a "clear example," warning of the continued risk of a wider regional war stretching from Iran across the Middle East.

Warning against 'logic of confrontation'

Mattarella stated that the crisis was already "severely and unjustly affecting civilian populations in Lebanon." He warned that fueling resentment and hatred "will only lead us down the path of war and prolonged conflict," adding that world powers face a choice between upholding international law or yielding to division. "We can, in fact, decide whether to continue upholding the primacy of international law and the pursuit of shared solutions, or instead yield to a logic of confrontation and division," he said.

Ceasefire violations continue

Israel has continued attacks on Lebanon despite a ceasefire that took effect on April 17 and was later extended for 45 days following indirect talks mediated by the US, according to Anadolu Agency. The Lebanese Health Ministry reported that Israeli attacks since March 2 have killed more than 3,400 people across the country.