Raggi from Rome: Italy is a pillar of support for Lebanon... and the negotiation phase is focused on halting attacks, not a peace agreement

Foreign Minister and Emigrants Youssef Raggi stressed that the Holy See and Italy constitute a fundamental pillar in Lebanon’s foreign relations, given their influential political, moral and humanitarian presence in supporting the country under the current circumstances.

Raggi affirmed that the support expressed by the Holy Father toward Lebanon carries a dimension that goes beyond the political framework, bearing deep humanitarian significance that reflects the extent of international concern over the Lebanese crisis and its repercussions.

In remarks to the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, he pointed out that Lebanese-Italian relations are rooted in a long history of cultural and humanitarian convergence, in addition to shared values linked to Mediterranean identity and the concept of coexistence. He expressed Beirut’s hope for the continuation of Italy’s active role in supporting stability during the delicate phase Lebanon is going through.

Raggi explained that Italy is playing a multi-track role toward Lebanon, through its diplomatic efforts within Europe to help stop the war, alongside its direct humanitarian role and its support through European Union institutions for thousands of displaced people forced to leave their homes under difficult conditions. He also praised Italy’s role within the UNIFIL forces in southern Lebanon, describing it as a key factor in strengthening stability, in addition to the continued support Rome provides to the Lebanese Army through training programs and logistical assistance.

Regarding the negotiations that began in Washington, Raggi clarified that Lebanon is not currently discussing any peace agreement, but is instead focused on stopping the attacks, halting the destruction and protecting civilians, in a way that would lay the groundwork for more serious and sustainable negotiations. He stressed that no negotiating track can succeed while civilians continue to be targeted and villages destroyed.

He underscored the need for Israeli forces to withdraw from southern Lebanon, for the displaced to return to their towns, and for the prisoner issue to be addressed.

As for Hezbollah’s weapons, Raggi said the Lebanese position stems from a clear sovereign principle based on restricting arms to the state and its legitimate institutions. He noted that this approach reflects an internal national will rather than a response to external pressure, pointing out that the government has clearly demanded that arms be confined to the hands of the state and has considered any military action outside its framework illegitimate.

In a related context, he said Italy could play a pivotal role in supporting Lebanon, whether by strengthening the capabilities of the Lebanese Army or by accompanying diplomatic efforts aimed at overcoming the crisis.

On linking the Lebanese file to the US-Iran talks, Raggi affirmed that Beirut is pursuing a policy of completely separating the tracks, rejecting any attempt by other parties to speak on Lebanon’s behalf, and stressing that the Lebanese decision is independent and sovereign.

He concluded by noting that Italy is qualified to serve as an effective bridge between Lebanon and Europe, and between humanitarian aid and the reconstruction path, in addition to its role as a key economic partner. He expressed hope that oil and gas exploration operations in Lebanese waters would generate mutual benefits for Lebanon and Italian companies alike.