Bad blood between Italy and Israel

The announcement was made by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. The agreement concerns a protocol establishing a framework for defence cooperation, including the exchange of military equipment and technological research for the armed forces. Until now, the agreement had been renewed every five years since April 13, 2016. According to Reuters, one of the consequences of Italy’s decision will be the termination of military training cooperation with Israel.

Israeli actions in the Middle East have been criticised by Meloni’s government in recent weeks, particularly the attacks on Lebanon that have resulted in civilian casualties. Moreover, Italy does not support the US war with Iran. Last week, Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani summoned the Israeli ambassador to deliver a formal protest following the attack on an Italian UNIFIL peacekeeping vehicle in southern Lebanon by Israeli forces.