The position of Italy on the Israeli- Palestinian conflict

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani outlined the government's position on the Israeli-Palestinian issue, emphasizing the need for a concrete approach to the creation of a Palestinian state that recognizes Israel and guarantees its territorial integrity. Tajani reiterated opposition to the attack on Gaza and the suspension of arms sales to Israel since October 7.

At a comprehensive and detailed joint hearing before the Foreign Affairs Committees of the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate, the Minister of Foreign Affairs Antonio Tajani outlined Italy's position on the complex Israeli-Palestinian issue, emphasizing the need for a concrete and pragmatic approach to reach a lasting solution.

The creation of a Palestinian state: a priority that requires concreteness.

At the center of Tajani's intervention was the firm belief of the Italian Government in the urgency of achieving the creation of a Palestinian state that recognizes Israel. However, the Minister emphasized the need for this state not just be a symbolic entity, but a concrete and territorially defined reality. "In order to tak of a true Palestinian state," Tajani stated, "it is essential to ensure territorial integrity. Otherwise, the recognition would be purely symbolic."

No to unilateral actions, yes to dialogue with Israel.

Rejecting the hypothesis of a unilateral recognition of Palestine, which he says would have purely symbolic value, Tajani reiterated the importance of a constructive dialogue with Israel. "This is the time to take concrete actions rather than symbolic ones," said the Minister, emphasizing how the recognition of Palestine "can only come from a dialogue with Israel."

The issue of arms sales and criticism of the attack on Gaza.

During the hearing, Tajani also addressed the delicate issue of arms sales to Israel, confirming that no new authorizations have been granted since October 7. This decision has triggered criticism from the Israeli government and press, but the Minister has staunchly defended it. While recognizing Israel as a democracy that deserves respect, Tajani reiterated Italy's strong condemnation of the attack on Gaza, emphasizing that our country cannot be the "actor that stops Israeli action". Moreover, the Italian government has repeatedly expressed its opposition towards Hamas and not towards Palestine, but Israel must defend itself.

Concern for the situation in northern Israel.

Finally, the Minister expressed concern about the growing tension at the border between Israel and Lebanon, describing the situation as "extremely tense" due to the Lebanese institutional impasse and the consequent "negative climate". It's a complex situation, in the face of which, Tajani concluded, "Italy cannot be asked to solve problems" that not even the international community can successfully address.

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