Hostage death in Nigeria irks Italian politicians

[March 09, 2012]  ROME (AP) -- President Giorgio Napolitano called "inexplicable" Britain's failure to "inform and consult" with Italy on an attempt to rescue an Italian held hostage in Nigeria.

The death of the Italian along with a British hostage has led to heavy criticism of Britain but also accusations by Italian politicians that Premier Mario Monti's government of technocrats is inept in foreign affairs.

Franco Lamolinara, an engineer, was killed Thursday along with a British hostage before rescuers could free them.

Napolitano said in Rome on Friday that the use of force requires an explanation on the political and diplomatic level.

[Associated Press]

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