Middle East crisis: Italian PM Meloni chairs G7 leaders' conference call

The decision was made during an urgent conference call chaired by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni with the other G7 leaders following the worsening of the crisis in the Middle East. During the conversation, the leaders reiterated the firm condemnation of Iran's attack against Israel. "In a constantly changing scenario, it was agreed to work together to foster a decrease in tensions at the regional level, starting with the application of Resolution 2735 in Gaza and of Resolution 1701 regarding the stabilisation of the Israel-Lebanon border," said the Italian PM's office after the con-call between the leaders. "Expressing their strong concern over the escalation of the last few hours, it was reaffirmed that a region-wide conflict is not in anyone's interest and that a diplomatic solution is still possible," the statement added. The leaders also agreed to keep in close contact. Meloni also held an urgent Cabinet meeting at Palazzo Chigi to discuss the situation and assess the necessary measures after the latest escalation. The meeting was attended by the Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, who joined remotely; the Minister of Defence, Guido Crosetto; Undersecretary of State Alfredo Mantovano, who is delegated authority for the security services; the heads of the secret services; the diplomatic advisor to the President of the Council of Ministers; and, the Italian Ambassador to Israel, Luca Ferrari, who also joined remotely. "Italy will continue to strive for a diplomatic solution, including in its capacity as chair of the G7. I have convened a leaders' level meeting for this afternoon," Meloni was quoted as telling her Cabinet. Earlier, Italy condemned Iran's attack on Israel, expressing deep concern over the ongoing developments and appealed to the responsibility of all regional players, calling for any further escalation to be avoided. "Italy will keep working towards a diplomatic solution, also as current G7 President, to stabilise the Israel-Lebanon border through full application of Resolution 1701. In this context, Italy invites the United Nations Security Council to consider strengthening the UNIFIL mission's mandate in order to ensure security along the border between Israel and Lebanon, pursuant to applicable UN resolutions," said a statement issued by Meloni's office. "It is equally urgent to reach an agreement for a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages, in line with Resolution 2735. The Italian government's immediate priority is to ensure the safety of Italian citizens and the military personnel serving in the UNIFIL contingent. The government task force has been put on permanent alert to constantly monitor developments in the situation and to promptly take any necessary action," it added. On Tuesday, during her call with the Prime Minister of Lebanon Najib Mikati, Meloni assured that Italy will continue to work for a de-escalation at the regional level. The G7 is an informal forum of the leaders of seven major industrialized nations, including Germany, France, Britain, Italy, Japan, Canada and the United States. Italy currently holds the G7 presidency and hosted the G7 Summit from June 13 to 15 in Borgo Egnazia in the country's southern region of Apulia.