In the heart of Valletta, at the Castille Square, the Maltese flag fluttered alongside others in a display of solidarity. But this time, it wasn’t just a show of unity with Europe. Malta had taken a stand on the global stage, joining nine other countries in blaming Hezbollah for the recent violence in Lebanon.

In a statement released from the Foreign and European Affairs Ministry, located in the historic Auberge de Castille, Malta condemned Hezbollah’s actions. “Malta joins the international community in condemning the violence in Lebanon,” the statement read, “and holds Hezbollah responsible for the recent events.”

This isn’t the first time Malta has taken a firm stance on international issues. Remember the time Malta was one of the first to recognize the independence of South Sudan? Or when it was at the forefront of condemning the use of chemical weapons in Syria? Today, Malta’s voice rings out again, this time echoing through the halls of the United Nations.

Hezbollah, a political and paramilitary organization based in Lebanon, has been designated as a terrorist group by several countries, including the United States, Canada, and the Arab League. Its actions, including attacks on Israeli and Western targets, have drawn international criticism.

In recent weeks, Lebanon has witnessed some of its worst violence in years, with clashes between Hezbollah and other political groups leaving several people dead and many more injured. The violence has raised concerns about the stability of the country and the wider region.

Malta, though small, has a significant voice on the international stage. As a member of the European Union and the United Nations, it has consistently punched above its weight in global affairs. Its decision to join other countries in blaming Hezbollah for the violence in Lebanon is a testament to this.

Malta’s strategic location in the Mediterranean has always given it a unique perspective on regional issues. From its vantage point, Malta has watched as the situation in Lebanon has deteriorated, and it has chosen to speak out.

“Malta’s foreign policy has always been guided by the principles of justice, peace, and security,” said a senior official at the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, who wished to remain anonymous. “In this case, we felt it was important to stand with the international community and condemn the violence in Lebanon.”