Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni stated that Italy will not recognize the State of Palestine unless Hamas lays down its arms and renounces any political role in the future Palestinian administration. Speaking before the Senate ahead of the 23–24 October European Council Summit in Brussels, Meloni outlined her government’s stance on key international issues.

These are preconditions endorsed both by the government and by this Parliament. Once they are met, Italy will be ready to act and formally recognize Palestine.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni

“Trump’s plan represents a positive step for the region”

Meloni referred to the 20-point peace plan proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump and signed in Sharm el-Sheikh, describing it as a “positive development for a fair and lasting peace in the Middle East.”

“I am deeply grateful to all mediators — Egypt, Qatar, and Türkiye — and especially to President Donald Trump, who has shown extraordinary energy to achieve this undeniable success,” she said. The prime minister added that, after years of stalemate, the region now faces a fragile but genuine opportunity for peace.

“Israeli reprisals cause civilian casualties”

While accusing Hamas of violating the ceasefire, Meloni also voiced criticism of Israel’s retaliatory actions that have resulted in civilian deaths. “A just and lasting peace requires both sides to respect the terms of the plan,” she said, urging all parties to seize the opportunity that this “light of peace” offers.

“Settlement policies are unacceptable”

Meloni underlined Italy’s opposition to Israel’s settlement expansion, condemning “violent statements by some Israeli officials.” She declared that Rome is ready to support “individual-level restrictive measures” within the EU against those responsible.

“Italy will continue its humanitarian efforts”

The prime minister highlighted that Italy’s “Food for Gaza” initiative, launched in March 2024, has delivered over 200 tons of aid and provided medical treatment to 196 Gazans. She also reaffirmed Italy’s commitment to supporting Palestinian institutions: “Our Carabinieri have been training the Palestinian police in Jericho, and we are prepared to expand our contribution to the EU mission in Rafah. I will discuss this personally with President Mahmoud Abbas in Rome at the beginning of November.”