Italy to Recognize Palestinian State Under Strict Conditions
Italy will consider recognizing a Palestinian state only if all Israeli hostages are released and Hamas is excluded from any government role. This announcement was made by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Tuesday. The statement comes as other G7 nations are moving toward recognizing Palestinian statehood.
Meloni's Stance and Government Motion
"I am not against the recognition of Palestine, but we should set ourselves the right priorities," Meloni told reporters. She announced that her government would present a motion to parliament on the issue. This indicates a potential shift in Italy's approach, but only under specific preconditions.
International Pressure and Hamas's Role
Speaking from New York during the United Nations General Assembly, Meloni emphasized that international pressure should be directed at Hamas rather than Israel. She attributed the start of the conflict and the obstruction of its resolution to Hamas's refusal to release the hostages. Meloni stated that these actions are preventing the process of recognition.
Italy's Position in the EU
Meloni leads a right-wing government that is known to be a strong ally of Israel within the European Union. Unlike other G7 countries such as Britain, Canada, and France, Italy has thus far refrained from recognizing Palestinian statehood this month. This highlights Italy's distinct and cautious approach to the issue.
