Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said the country was suspending Italy’s defence agreement with Israel, which involves the exchange of military equipment and technology research.
News agencies reported that “in view of the current situation, the government has decided to suspend the automatic renewal of the defence agreement with Israel,” Meloni said on the sidelines of an event in Verona, according to Italian news agency Ansa.
Israel continues strikes in Lebanon despite ceasefire
Israel earlier announced that its military operations in Lebanon will continue despite a ceasefire declaration by Donald Trump, with fresh air and artillery strikes reported across southern regions and civilians warned to evacuate targeted areas.
The office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu clarified that the proposed two-week pause “does not include Lebanon,” contradicting claims by Iran and Pakistan.
The Israeli military confirmed it was continuing operations against Hezbollah, urging residents in southern Lebanon to move north of the Zahrani River for safety.
Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts reportedly mediated in Pakistan between the US and Iran appear to have progressed without Israel’s direct involvement. Trump is said to have informed Netanyahu of the ceasefire decision shortly before publicly announcing it.
Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid strongly criticised the government, calling the situation a major political and strategic failure, and claiming Israel was excluded from key decisions impacting its national security.
Just before the ceasefire announcement, an Israeli strike targeted a vehicle near beachside cafes in Saida, killing at least eight people and injuring 22, according to Lebanon’s health ministry.
UAE strongly condemns Israeli strikes across Lebanon
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) strongly condemned the Israeli attacks across multiple areas in Lebanon and expressed deep concern over the ongoing escalation and its impact on regional security and stability.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) of the UAE called for coordinated international efforts to prevent further loss of life and highlighted the urgent need to ensure full protection for civilians in line with international law and treaties.
The Ministry reaffirmed the UAE’s full solidarity with the government of Lebanon and support during this critical juncture, emphasising its unwavering commitment to supporting Lebanon’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.
Furthermore, the Ministry affirmed the UAE’s unwavering position in rejecting violence and escalation, which contravene laws governing relations between countries and their sovereignty and that serve to further increase the risks of instability.
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia condemn Israeli strikes on Lebanon
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia expressed grave concern over continued ceasefire violations in Lebanon, calling for the immediate and complete enforcement of the truce to secure lasting peace in the region.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held a telephone conversation with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan to review the worsening situation. During the discussion, both leaders voiced serious concerns over repeated breaches of the ceasefire and stressed that strict adherence to the agreement is vital for ensuring long-term peace and regional stability.
The two sides agreed that urgent measures are required to prevent further escalation and deterioration of the security environment.
Pakistan strongly denounced Israeli strikes on Lebanon, citing significant civilian casualties and extensive damage to infrastructure. In a statement, Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Hussain Andrabi said the attacks constitute a violation of international law and risk undermining ongoing peace initiatives.
