Portrait of Giorgia Meloni
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Giorgia Meloni on Israel Relations

Pro-Israel alignment shifts (strong) Position evolved

Giorgia Meloni's approach to Israel Relations has been characterized by a strong initial alignment with Israel, rooted in shared conservative values and Atlanticism, but this has become more nuanced under the pressures of the Gaza conflict. As Prime Minister, she hosted Benjamin Netanyahu in Rome and repeatedly affirmed Israel's right to defend itself in accordance with international law following the October 2023 attacks. Despite this, her government's later actions indicated a move toward the European consensus, supporting a two-state solution while also taking steps like imposing an arms embargo on Israel during the Gaza war, contrasting with a previously strong pro-Israel leaning.

Timeline

  1. Meloni expressed support for closer relations with Israel and, at that time, criticized the Gaza war actions against Hamas.
  2. Meloni hosted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Rome, signaling a continuation of strong bilateral ties.
  3. Following the October 7th attacks, Meloni stated her support for Israel's full right to defend itself within international law.
  4. Meloni expressed opposition to moving the Italian embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.
  5. Her government imposed a full arms embargo on Israel following the 2023 Israeli invasion of Gaza, reversing a prior pro-Israel stance.
  6. Meloni's government maintained a pro-Israel position throughout the crisis related to the Global Sumud Flotilla, ruling out recognition of a State of Palestine as long as Hamas remained in power.

Actions Taken

  1. Diplomatic Visit
    Hosted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Rome for discussions.
  2. Official Statement
    Stated support for Israel's full right to defend itself following the October 2023 attacks by Hamas.
  3. Policy Decision
    Imposed a full arms embargo on Israel after the 2023 invasion of Gaza, reversing a previous stance.
  4. Diplomatic Stance
    Affirmed support for a two-state solution during the Gaza war period.
  5. Diplomatic Action
    Condemned Israeli attacks on UNIFIL bases in Lebanon, assuring Lebanon of Italy's solidarity.

Key Quotes

During the Gaza war, Meloni stated her support for "Israel's full right to defend itself in accordance with international law, and to live in peace".

Meetings with US leaders July 1, 2023 — Outlining her initial position following the Hamas attack.

"We consider the recognition of the State of Palestine to be premature as long as Hamas remains in power in Gaza."

Statements during the 80th UN General Assembly session September 1, 2025 — Justifying Italy's decision not to recognize Palestine.

Criticism

Opposition parties

Accused the government of isolating Italy diplomatically due to its consistently pro-Israel stance during the Gaza war crisis.