Via Reuters: Italy offers to lead U.N. force for Lebanon
The Beirut government welcomed Italy’s offer of 2,000 troops, the biggest commitment any country has yet made. Israel has already said it would be happy if Italy led the force.[...]
Turkey, Spain and other countries are still hesitating over whether to send contingents after France, earlier tipped to lead the force, sharply reduced its anticipated contribution.
Unfortunately, this UN mission is looking like a farce, although perhaps the Italian offer can help salvage the deal. Still, it does appear that no one is especially interested in actually doing the work needed.
The French reversal on the deployment was rather remarkable and certainly has undermined the entire process.
Sphere: Related ContentFiled under: Middle East | |
The views expressed in the comments are the sole responsibility of the person leaving those comments. They do not reflect the opinion of the author of PoliBlog, nor have they been vetted by the author.
August 21st, 2006 at 5:42 pm
At the risk of appearing to be fishing, here’s my take on this whole fiasco.
August 21st, 2006 at 5:53 pm
Doesn’t that depend on what you think “the entire process” is, Steven? Looks to me that, as far sa the French are concerned, the entire process was getting an end to Israeli shelling of Lebanon—even a temporary one. They’ve achieved that. Why do more?
August 22nd, 2006 at 11:57 am
If what the French want is for there to be no more Israel one Dreyfus at a time, this is a good start.. Pass the lampshades & the soap. wuddjew?
August 22nd, 2006 at 1:47 pm
Italy Steps Up Offers 3,000 Troops And To Lead Peace Force In Southern Lebanon
After the ridiculousness and absolute unreliability of France regarding the Israel-Lebanon conflict, Italy has stepped forward as the leader. Offering 3,000 troops — the largest of any nation — Italy has now offered to lead the force that is to…
August 26th, 2006 at 3:03 pm
[...] Read the rest of this post [...]