Italy will not be intimidated by recent attacks on its military personnel in the Middle East, Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said after a drone strike destroyed an Italian aircraft at an airbase in Kuwait.
The remotely piloted aircraft was hit on Sunday as tensions continue to escalate in the region following military action involving Iran, Israel and the United States. No injuries were reported in the attack. “We will not be intimidated; the Italian missions continue,” Tajani told Italian television, adding that Rome remains committed to its international obligations.
The incident comes just days after another drone strike targeted an Italian base in Erbil, in northern Iraq. That attack also caused damage but no casualties.
Further attacks around Italian military personnel
Further security concerns were reported on Monday when a drone struck a hotel in Baghdad where Italian troops were staying. Sources said there were no injuries among Italian personnel.
In southern Lebanon, debris fell at the UNIFIL base in Shama, which hosts the Italian-led Sector West Command. The debris was likely caused by rockets intercepted mid-air by Israeli defence systems.
An Italian soldier at the base reported eye irritation after the incident but did not suffer injuries.
The series of incidents highlights growing risks for Italian forces deployed in the region since the outbreak of the Iran-related conflict.
Tajani said Italy is taking precautionary measures by reducing troop numbers at some bases while continuing to honour its international commitments. He also stressed that Italy is not directly involved in the conflict.
“Italy is not at war with anyone,” he said, adding that he does not believe Italians are being specifically targeted.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni reiterated Italy’s diplomatic position, saying the government is working with international partners to reduce tensions.
“Italy, alongside its international partners, including the most affected Gulf countries, remains firmly committed to promoting de-escalation,” she said in a statement. “We will continue to work resolutely to restore peace and stability in the region.”
