Portrait of Giorgia Meloni
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Giorgia Meloni on Palestinian Issues

Pro-Israel Two-State Supporter (moderate) Position evolved

Giorgia Meloni's current policy as Prime Minister regarding Palestinian Issues reflects a complex balancing act between staunch Atlanticism, strong ties with Israel, and adherence to an international framework that supports a two-state solution.

During the Gaza war following the 2023 conflict escalation, Meloni stated her support for Israel's full right to defend itself in accordance with international law, while simultaneously voicing support for a two-state solution.

Her government has, at times, taken actions that appeared to align with or diverge from this stated balance, notably by imposing a full arms embargo on Israel following the 2023 invasion, though she has also been firm against the recognition of a Palestinian State while Hamas remains in power.

Context

Giorgia Meloni's position on Palestinian Issues is framed within her broader foreign policy, which strongly aligns with NATO and the United States.

As Prime Minister, her government has had to navigate the highly sensitive Middle East file, balancing relations with key allies like Israel and the United States against domestic opinion and European partners.

Her administration's approach is part of a broader effort to assert Italian national interests while engaging in major international summits like the G7.

Timeline

  1. As a deputy, Meloni condemned a massacre of children in Gaza during the 2014 conflict between Israel and Hamas.
  2. Meloni expressed support for Iran and Hezbollah as protectors of Syrian Christians, indicating a complex geopolitical alignment.
  3. Meloni hosted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Rome, signaling close ties with Israel.
  4. During her US trip, Meloni reaffirmed support for Israel's right to defend itself but also supported a two-state solution.
  5. Following the 2023 Israeli invasion of Gaza, Meloni reversed a perceived pro-Israel stance by imposing a full arms embargo on Israel.
  6. At the G7 summit, Meloni discussed the war in the Middle East, maintaining a complex diplomatic position.
  7. Meloni condemned Israeli attacks on UNIFIL bases in Lebanon and assured Lebanon of Italy's solidarity.
  8. Meloni's government took a pro-Israel position, ruling out recognition of Palestine as long as Hamas remained in power, despite protests.

Actions Taken

  1. Diplomatic Engagement
    Condemned Israeli attacks on UNIFIL bases in Lebanon while assuring Lebanese acting prime minister Najib Mikati of Italy's solidarity.
  2. Foreign Policy/Sanctions
    Imposed a full arms embargo on Israel after the 2023 invasion of Gaza.
  3. Diplomatic Stance
    Ruled out recognition of the State of Palestine as long as Hamas remained in power in Gaza, despite calls from other European nations.

Related Positions

  • Israel-Italy Relations Meloni hosted Israeli PM Netanyahu and has generally favored closer ties, a contrast to earlier historical criticism.
  • International Law and Conflict Her support for Israel's defense was explicitly conditional on compliance with international law.
  • Immigration Policy Her strict stance on irregular migration is a central policy, though distinct from the Israeli-Palestinian conflict dynamics.

Criticism

Opposition Parties

Accused the government of isolating Italy diplomatically by maintaining a strong pro-Israel stance and refusing to recognize a State of Palestine.