Italy Criticizes U.S.-Israeli War on Iran

Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni delivered her strongest criticism yet of the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran, describing it as part of a dangerous trend of interventions 'outside the scope of international law'. Her remarks came amidst accusations from the opposition that her government had been too soft on its allies. Meloni also emphasized that Iran must not be allowed to develop nuclear weapons, citing 'dramatic repercussions for global security'. The conflict, now in its 12th day, has seen the United States and Israel trading air strikes with Iran across the Middle East, leading to a halt in one-fifth of the world's oil and gas supplies. Meloni drew parallels between this conflict and Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, suggesting a broader global destabilization. Italy is providing air-defense assets to Gulf countries, citing the protection of Italian citizens and soldiers stationed in the region.