Italy is not at war and has no intention of entering one. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni delivered that message during an address to the Senate focused on the escalating crisis in the Middle East, rising tensions in the Gulf and the growing threat posed by Iran.
“The current crisis is certainly among the most complex of the past decades,” Meloni said. “It directly affects the security, the economy and the strategic interests of both Italy and Europe. For this reason, we must act with clarity, responsibility and a spirit of cohesion, avoiding political simplifications and polarization that help no one.”
The prime minister made clear that Italy is not taking part in the military operations carried out by the United States and Israel against the Iranian regime.
“Italy is not participating in these operations, will not participate, and has no intention of doing so,” she said. “On the contrary, we have consistently worked to prevent escalation, alongside partners such as Oman and Qatar.”
Addressing the issue of U.S. military bases on Italian territory, Meloni said it was important to clarify their legal framework. “American bases in Italy operate under agreements dating back to 1954, which have been updated by governments of every political orientation,” she explained. “Outside those bilateral agreements, any request to use such facilities would fall under the authority of the government and, ultimately, Parliament. As of today, we have received no such request.”
Meloni also highlighted Italy’s role in maintaining regional stability. She said the country had strengthened air defense support for Gulf states, alongside the United Kingdom, France and Germany.
“These are not only strategic partners,” she noted, “but also countries where tens of thousands of Italian citizens live and work, while roughly 2,000 Italian troops are deployed in the wider region.”
Italy has also sent a naval unit to Cyprus following Iranian attacks, she said, calling the move “a necessary act of solidarity and prevention in support of a European partner.”
The prime minister also addressed the situation in Lebanon, criticizing the actions of Hezbollah. “We are once again witnessing Hezbollah’s reckless decision to drag the Lebanese people into a new war with Israel,” she said.
Meloni expressed condemnation for civilian casualties and solidarity with local communities that have been escorted to safety by Italian troops.
“Italy plays a central role in international support for the Lebanese Armed Forces,” she added, “and will continue to do so with courage and determination, ensuring the safety of our soldiers serving in the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon and supporting efforts to end the cycle of violence and promote Hezbollah’s disarmament.”
In closing, Meloni acknowledged the diplomatic difficulties posed by the current global context.
“We live in a world that often forces us to choose between difficult options,” she said. “We cannot ignore the actions of a fundamentalist regime that represses its own opponents, threatens Gulf countries and seeks to equip itself with long-range missiles capable of carrying nuclear warheads. That is why Italy acts with caution, responsibility and full international coordination.”