Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Wednesday addressed the war and diplomatic efforts in the Middle East, saying her country expects Israel “to act as a positive player in the peace process.” She added, “We hope that the internal debate—also driven by the election campaign—will not jeopardize the difficult path the United States has embarked upon.”
The statement drew significant attention, as it was seen as a hint that Israel’s internal political discourse, particularly considerations related to the election cycle, may be influencing decisions about continuing the fighting and the diplomatic process. Critics of the Israeli government have long made similar claims that political considerations are affecting how the campaign is being managed.
Meloni’s remarks came shortly after a public and highly publicized meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump during the G7 summit. The two sought to demonstrate reconciliation after weeks of public tension. During the meeting, European Council President António Costa was heard joking with them, saying, “So you’re friends again,” to which Meloni replied, “We were always friends.”
Tensions between Trump and Meloni developed in recent months over disagreements surrounding the war in the Middle East and its implications for Europe. In Italy, public criticism of the continued fighting and the economic impact of the regional conflict is growing, particularly due to rising energy prices and fears of damage to the Italian economy.
At the same time, Israel’s military activity in various arenas and its identification with American policy have become an increasingly sensitive political issue in Italy. Ahead of expected elections in the country next year, Meloni’s government is adopting a more critical tone toward Jerusalem on a range of issues, even though for years Meloni was considered one of Trump’s and Israel’s closest allies in Europe.