Italian lawmakers on Thursday passed a motion supporting the cease-fire proposal put forward by President Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel to end the Gaza war and insisted on conditions for any eventual recognition of a Palestinian state.
The motions indicated the government’s attempt to bridge the gap with other Western nations while keeping Israel as an ally. Italy’s leaders have hesitated to follow the wave of countries — including France, Belgium and Portugal, along with Britain, Canada and Australia — that have recognized Palestinian statehood in recent months.
But opinion polls show that a vast majority of Italians believe Israel is committing genocide in Gaza and most Italians surveyed are in favor of recognizing a Palestinian state. Tens of thousands demonstrated in support of Palestinians last month; as many are expected to participate in a general strike on Friday in support of a flotilla that was intercepted trying to bring humanitarian goods to Gaza. Some Italians, including lawmakers, were aboard the boats.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni attacked the trade unions for organizing a strike that would lead to widespread disruptions. “All this brings no benefit to the Palestinian people,” she told reporters Thursday. “On the other hand, I understand that it will bring a lot of problems to Italian citizens.”
Ahead of the vote on Thursday, Antonio Tajani, the foreign minister, said that the cease-fire proposal “offered a glimmer of hope for peace” that “could be the turning point that changes the history of the Middle East,” as long as all the key players did their part.
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