G7 Leaders Express Concern Over Middle East Crisis, Advocate Diplomatic Solutions

G7 leaders voiced strong concerns about the Middle East crisis and emphasized the importance of a diplomatic solution to avoid a region-wide conflict. Italy, holding the G7 presidency, condemned Iran's missile attack on Israel and called for strengthening the UNIFIL peacekeeping force in Lebanon. Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani denied plans to withdraw troops.

G7 leaders have raised 'strong concern' over the escalating Middle East crisis, stressing the importance of a diplomatic solution to prevent a wider conflict. The statement came from Italy, which currently holds the rotating G7 presidency, following a missile strike by Iran on Israel that heightened regional tension.

The Italian government condemned Tehran's attack, its largest ever on Israel, and committed to joint efforts in reducing tensions. The statement also mentioned U.N. resolutions 2735 and 1701, which support peace in Gaza and south Lebanon.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni hosted the leaders' call and urged the U.N. Security Council to enhance the mandate of its UNIFIL peacekeeping force to secure the Israel-Lebanon border. Despite media reports, Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani clarified there are no plans to withdraw Italian troops from the area but highlighted the importance of having an evacuation plan.

(With inputs from agencies.)