Italy has decided to suspend the automatic renewal of its defense agreement with Israel in light of the current situation, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said Tuesday.
“The government, considering the situation we are experiencing, has decided to suspend the automatic renewal of the defense agreement with Israel,” Meloni said during a press briefing at the Vinitaly event in Verona.
Addressing broader international developments, Meloni stressed the need to continue efforts to advance peace negotiations and stabilize tensions, including reopening the Strait of Hormuz, which she described as vital not only for fuel supplies but also for fertilizers.
On energy policy, Meloni responded to suggestions about revisiting restrictions on Russian gas, saying economic pressure on Moscow remains a key tool. “We must not forget that the economic pressure we have exerted on Russia in recent years is the most effective weapon we have to build peace,” she said, adding she hopes progress will be made by early 2027.
Meloni also criticized recent remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump about the pope, calling them “unacceptable” and expressing solidarity with Pope Leo. She said she would not feel comfortable in a society where religious leaders follow political directives.
On relations with the United States, Meloni described Washington as a strategic ally but emphasized that allies must be willing to voice disagreements. “When you are friends and allies, particularly strategic ones, you must also have the courage to say when you disagree,” she said.