Erbil: Italy's defense minister has stated that a recent attack near the Iraqi city of Erbil deliberately targeted a military base hosting NATO forces, but did not cause any damage to the Italian contingent stationed there. Guido Crosetto revealed that Italian troops had taken precautionary measures prior to the incident and were already in protected areas when the attack took place.

According to Anadolu Agency, Crosetto explained in an interview with Italy's TG1 news program that the Italian contingent at the Erbil base had received warnings about the possibility of an attack. Consequently, they had implemented all necessary security measures since 8:30 am, ensuring that they were already in protected areas, thereby avoiding any damage. He emphasized that the attack was intentional, noting that the base in Erbil, which hosts NATO and US forces, has been previously targeted.

Crosetto highlighted that the base is a NATO facility and also serves as an American base, which has faced incidents or attempted attacks in recent days. In response to escalating tensions, Italy has begun reducing its personnel in the region. Crosetto mentioned that 102 personnel have already returned to Italy from the mission, while approximately 40 others have been relocated to Jordan.

For the remaining 141 personnel, a withdrawal plan is being prepared, though the process is complicated by logistical constraints. Crosetto pointed out that it is not feasible to send a plane directly, so the return would likely need to be conducted by land, possibly via Trkiye. He clarified that any troop relocation would be temporary and did not indicate a broader withdrawal from the region.

Crosetto underscored the importance of stabilizing these areas, emphasizing that instability in the region can have a direct impact on daily lives back home. He stressed that the effects, though seemingly distant, are quite close in terms of their impact.