Top news stories from Italy this week.

Italy's main news headlines from 12-18 April 2025.

Meloni meets Trump in Washington: Italian prime minister Giorgia Meloni became the first European leader to meet with US president Donald Trump following the imposition of US tariffs, currently paused, on EU goods. The talks focused primarily on trade and the broader relationship between the US and the EU, with Meloni seeking to act as a bridge between the two blocs. Trump said there "will be a trade deal, 100 per cent", while Meloni stated her aim to "make the West great again" and confirmed that the US president had accepted her invitation to visit Rome in the near future.

Extreme weather in northern Italy: Two people lost their lives due to flooding in the Vicenza area as a wave of extreme weather battered northern Italy. The father and son had been driving when their car fell through a bridge into the Agno torrents. The storms have left 6,400 people in Valle d'Aosta without electricity and led to the death of a 92-year-old man who drowned in his home near Turin after being trapped by flood waters.

Cable car disaster: Four people including a British couple were killed, and one was critically injured, in a cable car disaster on the Monte Faito cableway near Sorrento in southern Italy. An investigation has been launched into the disaster which occurred when the mountain cable car cabin plunged to the ground after one of the cables supporting it snapped.

Vance in Rome: Security in Rome is tight for the three-day visit of US vice president JD Vance who will stay in the Italian capital over the Easter weekend. Vance is scheduled to meet Vatican secretary of state Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the White House said, and will hold talks with premier Meloni on Friday following her return from Washington. It was not clear whether Vance, who converted to Catholicism six years ago, would participate in the Vatican's ceremonies for Holy Week in Rome.

Pope Francis and Easter: Pope Francis, recovering from a life-threatening case of double pneumonia, continues to make public appearances after his recent five-week hospital stay. The pontiff appeared at Palm Sunday celebrations in St Peter's Square and marked Holy Thursday by visiting prisoners in Rome's Regina Coeli jail. Francis, 88, is expected to impart the traditional Urbi et Orbi blessing at St Peter's on Easter Sunday.

Migration: EU backs Italy’s approach: Meloni welcomes the European Commission’s proposal of a list of "safe countries" for returning illegal migrants, which includes Bangladesh, Egypt and Tunisia. The plan would streamline asylum procedures and bolster Italy’s migration policies. Meanwhile, tensions remain high at Albania's Gjader detention centre, a key element of Italy's externalised migration strategy.

Mattarella surgery and constitutional warnings: President Sergio Mattarella underwent successful pacemaker surgery in Rome and is expected to return to work in time for Italy's Liberation Day celebrations next week. Meanwhile, he signed the so-called "Morandi law" to compensate victims of the Genoa bridge collapse but called for urgent corrections to avoid constitutional risks related to discrimination in the text.

US-Iran nuclear talks to resume in Rome: Indirect US-Iran nuclear negotiations, mediated by Oman, are set to take place in Rome on 19 April. US vice president JD Vance will not participate.

Venice tourist fee returns: Venice expands its €5 day-tripper entry fee, almost doubling the number of days it will be in effect - from 29 to 54 - starting on 18 April. The entry fee will be increased to €10 for day-trippers who book less than four days in advance. The system applies only to day-visitors, not to Venice residents or tourists staying overnight.

For daily News from Italy in English see the News section of our website.

Italy's main news headlines from 5-11 April 2025.

Royal visit: King Charles III and Queen Camilla's four-day state visit to Italy included a historic address by the British monarch to the Italian parliament, a state banquet at the presidential palace in Rome, meetings with Pope Francis and prime minister Giorgia Meloni, and a visit to Dante’s tomb in Ravenna.

ATECO code for sex workers: Italy's national statistics agency ISTAT has included a category for prostitutes and escorts in its new ATECO classification of economic activities, sparking debate. The ATECO code is used to classify economic activities for statistical, tax and social security purposes, however ISTAT clarified that the new classification incorporates the European NACE category relating to "other personal service activities".

Meloni’s business push amid global tensions: Meloni identified €25 billion in funds, hypothetical for now, to shield Italian businesses from the economic fallout of the tariffs on EU exports, currently on hold, announced by US president Donald Trump. Meloni is set to meet Trump in Washington on 17 April.

Prada buys Versace for €1.25 billion: In a move that unites two major names in Italian fashion, the Prada Group acquired smaller Milan rival Versace in a €1.25 billion deal.

High-speed rail link from London to Milan: Italy's national rail operator plans to take on Eurostar with a new high-speed rail service linking London with Milan by 2029, as part of a €1 billion investment in services in Europe.

Salvini reconfirmed as Lega leader: Matteo Salvini was re-elected unopposed as leader of the right-wing Lega, until 2029. Amid internal government frictions, Meloni has firmly rejected the idea of reshuffling the cabinet, defending interior minister Matteo Piantedosi, whose role Salvini is keen to reprise.

For daily News from Italy in English see the News section of our website.

Italy's main news headlines from 29 March-4 April 2025.

Tariff fallout: Meloni seeks calm amid US trade tensions: Prime minister Giorgia Meloni responded to Trump’s announcement of new tariffs by calling the move “wrong,” while emphasising the need to avoid panic or retaliatory escalation. With 10 per cent of Italy’s exports heading to the US, she underlined that trade would continue and that efforts must focus on securing a negotiated solution. The opposition, led by centre-left Partito Democratico (PD) leader Elly Schlein, slammed the government’s inaction, calling the tariffs “a blow” and accusing Meloni of complacency. Italy is actively diversifying its trade partners, turning toward India, Arab states, and finalising support for the Mercosur agreement.

Tajani: Negotiate, don’t retaliate: Foreign minister Antonio Tajani reinforced the government’s pragmatic tone, urging Italy and the EU not to react with “blind retaliation.” Instead, he advocated for negotiations to reduce the tariffs and for a renewed industrial strategy that opens new markets and boosts economic growth. His message aligned with call by Confindustria, the main association representing manufacturing and service companies in Italy, to seek relief through lower interest rates and trade diversification rather than confrontation.

Femicides spark national outrage: The brutal murders of Sara Campanella in Messina and Ilaria Sula in Rome have reignited the national conversation on gender-based violence. Protests and calls for policy action have followed. Centrist senator Mariastella Gelmini called for renewed educational campaigns and reintroducing a national awareness week. Irene Pellizzone, associate professor of constitutional law at the University of Milan, noted that society still normalises early warning signs of abuse, which contributes to these tragedies.

Italy tightens rules for citizenship by descent: Italy tightened its citizenship laws in an attempt to crack down on "abuse" of the system to claim an Italian passport by descent. The surprise move will require applicants to have at least one parent or grandparent born in Italy. The new two-generation rules tighten the previous ius sanguinis (blood right) requirement, a law dating to 1992, which allowed anyone with an Italian ancestor who was alive after 17 March 1861 - when the Kingdom of Italy was created - to seek Italian citizenship.

Tesla arson attack: Musk calls it 'terrorism': A major fire at a Tesla dealership in Rome destroyed 17 cars. Authorities suspect anarchist involvement. Elon Musk referred to the incident as “terrorism,” prompting an investigation and political debate about growing extremism.

Russian drones spark espionage concerns: A Russian drone flew multiple times over the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre in Ispra, in northern Italy, prompting enquiries by Copasir and anti-terror investigators. Defence minister Guido Crosetto called it a “hybrid war,” while other officials urged caution but acknowledged the seriousness of the intrusion.

Presidential warning: AI and the erosion of language: President Sergio Mattarella raised concerns about the cultural risks of artificial intelligence, warning that it could erode the Italian language and weaken cultural pluralism. His remarks were part of a broader reflection on the need to regulate AI without undermining national identity.

Brignone’s fall casts shadow over Olympics: Italian skiing champion Federica Brignone suffered a severe injury during training, fracturing her tibia and fibula and tearing a ligament. Her participation in the upcoming Olympics is now uncertain, dealing a blow to Italy’s winter sports hopes.

Defence policy splits coalition: The European parliament’s recent approval of a defence policy report caused visible cracks in the governing coalition. Forza Italia voted in favour, while the Lega opposed it and Fratelli d’Italia abstained, citing anti-American language and high spending levels. The PD also backed the plan, despite internal disagreements. The populist Movimento 5 Stelle (M5S) and the left-wing Green and Left Alliance (AVS) rejected the proposal and are organising a large anti-rearmament demonstration in Rome, open to parties and citizens.

Lega congress in Florence: Salvini faces rivals: Preparations for the Lega’s upcoming congress have highlighted internal tensions. While Matteo Salvini is expected to retain leadership, figures like Luca Zaia and General Roberto Vannacci are increasingly seen as potential contenders for the party’s future direction.

Progress on PNRR: Italy leads EU performance rankings: With just 18 months left to complete the PNRR (National Recovery and Resilience Plan), Italy has been praised by the European Commission as the EU’s best performer. Major achievements include reforms in justice, digitalisation and social policies.

Security and policing: new protections for law enforcement: The government is drafting a new decree to enhance legal protections for police officers and military personnel using firearms. This follows recent high-profile incidents and growing political pressure to support law enforcement.

Youth violence on the rise: A study by national research council CNR shows that 40 per cent of Italian adolescents have been involved in fights. The trend has worsened post-covid, with violence increasingly normalised as a form of social belonging among youth.

Migration: Lampedusa rescue and Albania deal endorsed: Sea Watch rescued 49 migrants off Lampedusa, renewing focus on Italy’s migration policies. Meanwhile the European Commission declared the Italy-Albania migration pact “in line with EU law,” a win for Meloni’s government.

Erdoğan to visit Rome: President Erdoğan will arrive in Rome on 17 April for meetings with Meloni and Italian business leaders, amid delicate geopolitical circumstances. His visit comes at a pivotal time for both countries’ international positioning.

For daily News from Italy in English see the News section of our website.

Italy's main news headlines from 22-28 March 2025.

Premierato: Prime minister Giorgia Meloni has renewed her push for constitutional reform, emphasising the direct election of the premier as a "fundamental reform to make Italy stronger." She underlined this initiative while noting that her government is now among the five longest-lasting in the history of the Italian republic.

Justice reform and tensions with the judiciary: The lower house rejected a motion of no confidence against justice minister Carlo Nordio. Nonetheless, controversy persists, especially regarding the Almasri case and Nordio’s reform agenda. The National Association of Magistrates (ANM) has voiced concerns to President Mattarella, warning that proposed constitutional changes could undermine judicial independence and the balance within the High Council of the Judiciary (CSM). Meanwhile, the government appears determined to push through reforms quickly, bypassing broad parliamentary debate.

Foreign policy, Ukraine and defence: Italy reaffirmed at a Palazzo Chigi summit its refusal to send troops to Ukraine except under a UN-led mission, aligning its position with NATO’s Article 5 framework. Meloni attended the Paris summit of the “willing nations”, led by Macron and Starmer, reinforcing her focus on Washington and NATO rather than Brussels. Italy's President Mattarella, meanwhile, called on the EU to take urgent action on defence, especially in light of new threats related to space.

Coalition strains and leadership dynamics: Despite public reassurances from Meloni and Salvini, tensions are mounting within the ruling coalition. Disagreements over foreign policy, rearmament and relations with the EU are creating friction between Meloni, Tajani and Salvini. Meloni reportedly prefers to manage these disputes privately but has urged her allies to lower the political tone.

Surveillance, cybersecurity and civil liberties: The prime minister’s office confirmed that Paragon spyware, developed in Israel, was used legally by Italian intelligence to monitor the NGO Mediterranea, viewed as a national security concern. A new decree now requires all public administrations to report unauthorised data access within six hours to the National Cybersecurity Agency, introducing fines of up to €2 million for non-compliance.

Social policy and gender debate: A proposal by the centre-left former culture minister Dario Franceschini to allow children to receive only their mother’s surname has reignited debates on gender equality in family law. Supported by the left and opposed by the right, the proposal reflects broader cultural divisions within Italian politics.

Historical memory and politics: On the 81st anniversary of the Fosse Ardeatine massacre, Meloni's official statement omitted any reference to the role of fascists, attributing the atrocity solely to "occupying Nazi troops." The omission drew strong criticism from various associations and political figures, including ANPI, accusing the government of historical revisionism.

Controversies and scandals: The Visibilia case involving tourism minister Daniela Santanché continues, with a change of legal counsel and a request to postpone the hearing. Meanwhile, former centre-left premier Romano Prodi apologised after a controversial gesture toward a journalist, in which he tugged her hair, defending his honour while drawing criticism from both political camps. In another front, the Rome prosecutor’s office launched a probe into a recent pro-European demonstration in the capital, amid questions over the €350,000 allegedly paid by the city's centre-left administration to host the event. The Lega and Fratelli d'Italia plan to file complaints.

Public sentiment and political polarisation: A study by Bocconi University’s Monitoring Democracy Observatory reveals increasing political polarisation among youth, with young men leaning right and young women leaning left. 

For daily News from Italy in English see the News section of our website.

Italy's main news headlines from 15-21 March 2025.

Meloni and the Ventotene Manifesto controversy: At the EU Council in Brussels, Italian prime minister Giorgia Meloni defended herself against criticism over the distribution of the Ventotene Manifesto at a pro-European rally in Rome. She denied disrespecting the document or its historical significance, blaming the backlash on an "illiberal and nostalgic Left." While the government majority supported her, European Parliament president Roberta Metsola reaffirmed the importance of the Manifesto, which was written in 1941 and laid the foundations for the modern idea of a united Europe. The manifesto, officially entitled “For a free and United Europe”, was signed by Altiero Spinelli and Ernesto Rossi who both were kept in the prison camp in Ventotene built on the Italian island in 1939 to exile opponents of the fascist regime.

Defence and foreign policy balancing act: Meloni is walking a political tightrope on European defence. Internally, she faces resistance from the Lega and concerns from economy minister Giorgetti, especially over EU rearmament plans. Externally, she seeks to maintain strong ties with both the EU and the US, particularly as Donald Trump looms in the background. In her pre-Council address, Meloni opposed using EU cohesion funds for arms, supported Ukraine, and warned against a damaging trade war with the US. Analysts suggest her careful tone reflects the need to balance internal coalition divisions and strategic diplomacy.

Coalition friction over Europe: Tensions over European policy persist between deputy prime ministers and coalition partners Matteo Salvini, of the Lega, and Antonio Tajani, of Forza Italia. Analysts suggest the government will eventually need to clarify its stance, or risk the EU demanding clarity, while Meloni's attempts to appease both wings risks weakening Italy’s position in Brussels.

Draghi’s return to the senate: Mario Draghi returned to the senate to present the EU Commission’s report on innovation, energy transition and defence. He emphasised the need for a unified European market and a common defence system, especially as US policy becomes less predictable. Draghi cautioned against bilateral deals and called for collective EU action on major challenges.

Judicial and legal developments: Parliament passed a law limiting wiretaps to 45 days unless extended with specific justification. While the government says it protects investigations, the opposition and magistrates argue it weakens legal tools.

Industrial news: Nine people are under investigation for the explosion at the ENI depot in Calenzano, with authorities citing a chain of managerial failures tied to cost-cutting.

Environmental news. Greenpeace and ETH Zurich study predicts that Italy will lose nearly half its Alpine glaciers in the next 25 years, with 94 per cent vanishing by 2100.

Migration news: A tragic shipwreck near Lampedusa left around 40 people missing. Rescuers saved 10 people. Survivors reported departing Tunisia with 56 people aboard.

Earthquakes: The southern regions of Basilicata and Puglia were struck by earthquakes, though no damage was reported. An earthquake in Campi Flegrei, a highly seismic area near Naples, was revised upward to magnitude 4.6, the strongest to hit the region in 40 years.

EU demonstrations and pro-European sentiment: Following the pro-Europe rally in Rome on 15 March, which saw strong participation, centre-left mayors from Bologna and Florence are planning a follow-up event on 5 April. Demonstrators called for unity, democracy, peace and environmental sustainability across the continent.

Totti in Russia and cultural sensitivities: Controversy surrounds former Roma footballer Francesco Totti’s expected participation in a Russian sports event sponsored by a betting company, sparking debate about political symbolism amid geopolitical tensions.

For daily News from Italy in English see the News section of our website.

Italy's main news headlines from 9-14 March 2025.

Italy sets date for referendums: The government has set the date to hold five referendums, including a landmark referendum on easing Italy's citizenship rules by halving the current 10-year wait, and a referendum on the Jobs Act labour legislation which regulates short-term contracts and how workers are laid off in small businesses. The referendums will be held on 8-9 June in parallel to Italy's municipal election run-offs.

Starlink controversy and government split: The Starlink issue is causing fractures within the government. Matteo Salvini supports the immediate adoption of Elon Musk’s Starlink system for national security, while Meloni and other ministers remain cautious, citing potential security risks. Musk requested a meeting with Italy's President Sergio Mattarella but the Quirinale rejected it, stating that negotiations over Starlink should be handled by the government, not the head of state.

Tensions between Italy and Russia: Foreign minister Antonio Tajani summoned the Russian ambassador after Moscow accused President Mattarella of lying about Russia’s nuclear threats. Mattarella had earlier condemned Russia’s nuclear rhetoric during his visit to Japan. The Italian government issued a bipartisan statement expressing full solidarity with Mattarella and denouncing Russia’s remarks.

Political divisions on EU defence and Ukraine: Reports suggest a heated discussion between prime minister Giorgia Meloni and economy minister Giancarlo Giorgetti over his Lega party’s opposition to the EU rearmament plan. This threatens Meloni’s diplomatic role between Washington and Brussels. Minister for Europe Tommaso Foti defended the abstention of Meloni's Fratelli d'Italia (FdI) party, arguing it was meant to preserve US-EU unity, not signal a retreat from Ukraine. The centre-right coalition remains divided, with FdI and Forza Italia supporting the plan, while the Lega opposes it, insisting defence investments must benefit Italian companies.

Military spending and European defence: Economy minister Giorgetti proposed boosting defence investments through private funding backed by EU public guarantees, instead of new public debt. Former Air Force chief General Pasquale Preziosa emphasised the need for deterrence against Russia, focusing on advanced military technologies beyond traditional arms. Meanwhile, Leonardo, Italy’s top aerospace company, is set to enter the low Earth orbit satellite market in partnership with Thales, strengthening Europe’s defence capabilities.

Campi Flegrei earthquake crisis: A 4.4-magnitude earthquake struck the Campi Flegrei area near Naples, marking the strongest seismic activity in 40 years in the region. The quake caused structual damage and led to school closures in Pozzuoli, Bagnoli and Fuorigrotta.

Musk’s hiring freeze at US military bases in Italy: Musk, who plays a senior role in the administration of US president Donald Trump, has frozen hiring at American military bases in Italy, affecting 4,300 Italian workers. Mayors and unions have raised concerns about job security, fearing economic instability in affected areas.

School reform: curriculum changes: Italy's education ministry has introduced new school curriculum guidelines. Latin will be optional in middle schools, while there will be increased focus on Western history, the impact of Christianity, and recent historical events. Calligraphy and cursive writing are also being reintroduced, alongside memorisation of poems.

Pro-Europe demonstration: A large-scale pro-Europe rally is planned on 15 March in Rome’s Piazza del Popolo, featuring intellectuals, artists and political figures. Organisers emphasise no party symbols, only EU flags, to promote European unity and democratic values. The PD is mobilising supporters, while M5S leader Giuseppe Conte has offered conditional support for the event.

For daily News from Italy in English see the News section of our website.

Italy's main news headlines from 1-8 March 2025.

Italy's top court orders government to compensate migrants stranded at sea. Italy must pay compensation to migrants who were not permitted to disembark from the Diciotti ship in August 2018, the country's top court ruled, prompting a furious reaction from the government. The 177 migrants who were held aboard the ship for 10 days were deprived of their personal freedom, the cassation court ruled, and are accordingly entitled to compensation from the Italian state. Slamming the decision as “highly questionable” and “very frustrating", Meloni wrote on X that the compensation - whose amount has yet to be decided by the court - would end up being paid by Italian taxpayers. The Diciotti coast guard ship rescued the migrants off Lampedusa on 16 August 2018 but, after trying to land on the Italian coast, then interior minister Matteo Salvini declared all of the country’s ports closed. Salvini, now deputy premier, branded the cassation court's ruling a “disgrace" and suggested that the judges should pay the compensation.

Concerns for Pope Francis. Pope Francis, battling double pneumonia in Rome's Gemelli Hospital for the last three weeks, is in a stable condition however his prognosis remains "reserved", according to the Vatican. Doctors say the 88-year-old pontiff has shown a good response to therapy and is displaying a "gradual, slight improvement". A surprise audio recording from the pope was played at a Rosary in St Peter's Square in which a breathless, weak-sounding Francis thanked everyone for their prayers. Meanwhile speculation continues in Rome that a papal resignation may be on the cards.

EU defence plan and Italy’s stance. The European Union's €800 billion ReArm Europe initiative has sparked debate in Italy. While Meloni acknowledges the need for strengthened European defence, she insists that cohesion funds should not be repurposed for military spending, emphasising their role in economic and social development. Her government is advocating for an investment model similar to InvestEU, which would encourage private funding alongside public contributions. Salvini and economy minister Giancarlo Giorgetti oppose the plan, criticising it as a rushed and poorly structured initiative that diverts resources from essential public services like healthcare and education.

Italy’s diplomatic and economic relations with Japan. President Sergio Mattarella’s visit to Japan highlights Italy’s efforts to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties with Tokyo. In his speeches, Mattarella reaffirmed the countries' shared values and growing partnership, particularly in trade, technology and defence. He strongly criticised protectionist policies, arguing that open markets are crucial for maintaining global stability and peace. His visit also has strategic implications, as Italy and Japan seek to establish a new global security framework in response to changing US policies.

Scandals and corruption investigations in Milan. Milan is at the centre of a growing corruption scandal involving city officials and major real estate developments. Giovanni Oggioni, a former municipal official, has been placed under house arrest on charges of corruption, procedural fraud and obstruction of justice. The investigation reveals illicit dealings related to the construction of skyscrapers where officials allegedly received financial benefits, including consultancy contracts and job placements for family members. Milan's centre-left mayor Giuseppe Sala has distanced himself from those under investigation, aligning with prosecutors and pledging transparency.

Justice reform stalemate and institutional tensions. Efforts to reform Italy’s judicial system remain stalled due to conflicts between the government and the National Association of Magistrates (ANM). Meloni has denied claims that her administration seeks to remove judicial police from the oversight of public prosecutors. Meanwhile ANM continues to resist proposed changes, warning of a possible referendum if the government pushes ahead with career reforms. While Meloni has offered minor concessions, such as a tempered lottery for electing members of the Superior Council of the Judiciary (CSM) and gender quotas, judges argue that the government should focus on addressing staffing shortages and digital transformation in the judiciary.

Meloni’s diplomatic balancing act amid transatlantic uncertainty. Meloni is carefully navigating Italy’s position between European allies and the United States. At the recent London summit to discuss a new peace plan in Ukraine, she engaged in discussions with British prime minister Keir Starmer and French leaders while maintaining communication with Donald Trump. Her strategy appears to be one of positioning Italy as a central player in European defence discussions without fully aligning with either Trump’s isolationist stance or the more interventionist approaches of France and the UK. Her meeting with Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky reaffirmed Italy’s support for Ukraine, but Meloni remains cautious about European military involvement without clear US backing.

Amerigo Vespucci embarks on Mediterranean Tour. Italy's Amerigo Vespucci tall ship returned to the northern port of Trieste after a 20-month world tour to promote Italian food, wine, culture and design. During the 'Made in Italy' voyage, the fully rigged Italian navy vessel docked in 35 ports, taking in 30 countries and five continents, welcoming around half a million people on board. Trieste marked the first stop in the ship's new Mediterranean Tour which will incorporate 17 cities - 15 of them in Italy - and will conclude in Genoa on 10 June, Navy Day.

Italy mourns the loss of cultural icons. Italy has lost two beloved figures: sports commentator Bruno Pizzul, who passed away at 86, and actress Eleonora Giorgi, who died aged 71 after battling cancer. Their deaths mark the end of significant chapters in Italian media and cinema, with both figures leaving behind lasting legacies in their respective fields.

For daily News from Italy in English see the News section of our website.

Italy's main news headlines from 22-28 February 2025.

Starlink vs. Fratelli d’Italia: A battle over national security and satellite influence.

A political and technological dispute has erupted in Italy over the regulation of satellite technology, with Starlink at the centre of the controversy. Andrea Stroppa, Elon Musk’s key representative in Italy, publicly attacked premier Giorgia Meloni's right-wing Fratelli d’Italia (FdI) party on X, urging them to stop contacting Starlink. The dispute stems from a proposed Space Bill, which reportedly has bipartisan support from FdI and the centre-left Partito Democratico (PD).

The bill seeks to regulate the use of satellite technology, particularly in the context of national security, by ensuring that any satellite services used by the government must be compatible with Italy’s international defence programmes and that the encryption and technology used must remain under Italian control. This measure could limit Starlink’s operations in Italy, leading Stroppa to claim that politicians are trying to depict Starlink and SpaceX as villains.

The opposition, particularly PD lawmakers, have denounced Stroppa’s remarks as unacceptable interference and blackmail against parliament, setting the stage for a fierce battle in the legislative committee. The outcome of this debate could have significant implications not just for Italy’s digital and defence infrastructure but also for Musk’s expanding role in European politics.

Judiciary crisis: Mattarella defends judicial independence amid magistrates’ strike.

Italy’s judicial system is facing one of its most significant crises in years, as tensions between the government and the judiciary escalate. President Sergio Mattarella took a firm stance in a special session of the Supreme Council of the Judiciary (CSM), where he reaffirmed that an independent judiciary is indispensable for democracy. His remarks came ahead of a strike by magistrates in protest over a controversial judicial reform backed by the government.

The reform, heavily criticised by the National Magistrates' Association (ANM), is seen as an attempt to limit judicial independence. Former magistrate Edmondo Bruti Liberati warned that the reform does not aim to improve efficiency or fairness in the justice system but rather to curb judicial power, with potentially harmful effects on citizens' rights.

Adding to the tension, the session also saw the appointment of Pietro Gaeta as the new attorney general of the court of cassation, succeeding Luigi Salvato. Gaeta played a pivotal role in the Palamara case, which exposed corruption within the judiciary. His appointment, which was not unanimous (20 votes for, 9 against), reflects deep divisions within the legal and political system. This judicial battle underscores a growing institutional conflict, with Mattarella trying to calm tensions between the judiciary and the government, urging for institutional cooperation instead of power struggles.

Italy-UAE strengthen strategic partnership with $40 billion investment deal.

Meloni welcomed UAE president Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to Rome in a high-profile diplomatic and economic summit that solidified Italy’s role as a strategic gateway between Europe and the Middle East. A key outcome of the meeting was the announcement of a $40 billion Emirati investment in Italy, focusing on advanced technology, artificial intelligence and renewable energy. The UAE is already Italy’s top trading partner in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, with non-oil trade reaching $14.1 billion in 2024, a 21.2 per cent increase from 2023.

The discussions also emphasised defence and security, strengthening military cooperation and intelligence-sharing. Sustainability and energy were key topics, with both countries committed to expanding collaboration on green energy projects. Strategic infrastructure, including joint projects in AI and data centres, was also discussed, positioning Italy as Europe’s digital hub for Middle Eastern investments.

The UAE’s commitment to supporting Italy’s Mattei Plan for Africa suggests a broader geopolitical strategy, in which Italy is trying to establish itself as a key player in Mediterranean stability. Meloni described the meeting as a major step toward strengthening Italy’s global economic influence, while foreign minister Antonio Tajani positioned Italy as Europe’s bridge to Asia and the Middle East, calling it the new "Cotton Route."

Italy’s healthcare system: A country of two speeds.

A 2023 report on Italy’s healthcare system revealed deep regional disparities in access to medical services, highlighting a growing divide between the north and south. According to the report, only 13 out of 20 Italian regions meet the Essential Levels of Care (LEA) standards across three key areas: hospital care, territorial healthcare, and prevention.

The best-performing regions are Veneto, Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna, which consistently provide high-quality healthcare. The worst-performing regions are Calabria, Sicily and Valle d’Aosta, where hospital services and primary care are severely lacking.

The north-south gap remains stark, with the southern regions struggling due to underfunding, understaffing and inefficient management. Meanwhile 13 Italian hospitals were ranked among Newsweek’s World’s Best Hospitals, with Niguarda Hospital in Milan leading in Italy. Despite some improvements in hospital care, the persistent weakness in territorial healthcare poses a major challenge, particularly in an aging country where access to local medical services is increasingly crucial.

Meloni at CPAC: Defending conservatism and the West’s future.

Meloni took the stage at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in the United States, where she delivered a strongly ideological speech about the future of conservatism, transatlantic alliances and the importance of defending Western values. Her 15-minute address focused on Ukraine, where she reaffirmed that Italy stands by Ukraine against Russian aggression, rejecting any calls for neutrality.

She emphasised that Western civilisation needs both America and Europe to survive global threats. She also hinted that under Trump, the Afghanistan withdrawal debacle wouldn’t have happened, suggesting support for a stronger American leadership. Culture wars were another major theme, as she condemned "cancel culture and woke ideology," portraying herself as a defender of traditional values.

Her appearance at CPAC is a clear attempt to position herself as Europe’s leading conservative voice, particularly as Trump’s potential return to power could reshape US-EU relations. Domestically, her CPAC speech is also a signal to Italy’s right-wing electorate, reinforcing her identity as a strong, principled leader at a time when her government faces internal divisions on key issues like Ukraine, economic reforms and judicial independence.

For daily News from Italy in English see the News section of our website.

Italy's main news headlines from 15-21 February 2025.

Delmastro sentenced but stands firm: Justice undersecretary Andrea Delmastro received an eight-month suspended prison sentence for disclosing official secrets related to the case of the anarchist Alfredo Cospito. Fratelli d'Italia, the right-wing party of prime minister Giorgia Meloni, called it a political verdict, while Meloni said she was "shocked". The opposition criticised the government for undermining judicial independence, with the magistrates union ANM expressing bewilderment over what it described as the government's attack aganist a judge, deligitimising a sentence, news agency ANSA reports. Delmastro refuses to resign.

Pope in hospital: Pope Francis was hospitalised last week for a respiratory infection, with doctors subsequently diagnosing double pneumonia. The 88-year-old pontiff is to remain at the Gemelli Hospital in Rome for at least another week, the Vatican said.

Placebo singer faces charges in Italy: Brian Molko, frontman of British alternative rock band Placebo, faces a defamation trial in Italy for insulting Meloni at a concert near Turin in 2023. Italy's justice ministry gave Turin prosecutors the green light to launch legal proceedings against Molko on charges of "contempt of the institutions", an offence that carries a fine of up to €5,000.

Trump’s special envoy to Italy: US President Donald Trump appointed Paolo Zampolli, a longtime friend and Italian-born entrepreneur based in New York, as special envoy to Italy. His role will focus on strengthening political and economic ties, especially in the military sector, alongside the US ambassador.

Political tensions over Trump: Giuseppe Conte, leader of the populist Movimento 5 Stelle (M5S), sparked controversy by suggesting Trump has exposed Western "pro-war propaganda." The opposition accuses him of betraying Italy and the EU, complicating future political alliances. Matteo Salvini, deputy premier and leader of the right-wing Lega, supports Trump and criticises EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen over Ukraine.

Tanker explosion in Liguria: A Maltese-flagged tanker suffered minor damage from an explosive attack off Italy's Ligurian coast. Authorities suspect sabotage linked to Russian smuggling operations, and an investigation for terrorism-related shipwreck has been launched.

Israeli President Herzog in Rome: President Mattarella and prime minister Meloni met Israeli President Isaac Herzog, reaffirming Italy’s support for Israel’s security. Meloni underscored the importance of maintaining the ceasefire in Gaza to facilitate hostage releases and humanitarian aid.

Lo Voi defends himself at Copasir: Rome’s chief prosecutor Francesco Lo Voi defends his actions at Copasir, the parliamentary committee that oversees the country's intelligence services, after accusations of leaking classified information. He clarifies that he never accessed secret service documents, but only sought to verify their sources.

Paragon spyware scandal: Justice minister Carlo Nordio denies government involvement in using Israeli spyware Graphite. Opposition parties demand transparency, with Matteo Renzi accusing the government of lying.

Meloni caught between Trump and Ukraine: Meloni struggles to balance support for Trump and Ukraine. She remains silent on US criticism of Zelensky but will meet Trump virtually at a conservative summit. Salvini praises Trump, while M5S leader Conte argues Meloni’s alignment has been a failure.

Italians’ divided opinion on Trump: A survey published in La Stampa reveals that half of Italians reject Trump, with 72 per cent of young people seeing him as a danger to international stability. Only Fratelli d’Italia and Lega voters believe he promotes stability.

Giulio Regeni case: diplomatic twist: Diplomat Armando Varricchio retracts his previous testimony in relation to the Giulio Regeni case, raising concerns of false statements. The trial will resume in April.

Medically assisted suicide debate: The Italian Episcopal Conference opposes Tuscany’s push for end-of-life legislation, arguing that healthcare should focus on treatment, not facilitating death. Salvini published a social media poll showing strong public support for a law allowing terminally ill patients to decide their fate, and said the controversial issue would be discussed at his Lega party's upcoming congress in April.

Ferrari unveils SF-25 Formula 1 car: Ferrari presents its 2025 F1 car at London’s O2 Arena. Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton tested the car on Fiorano’s track, with the team optimistic for the new season.

Mattarella clashes with Russia: President Mattarella condemned Russia’s actions in Ukraine, drawing harsh criticism from Moscow. Italy reaffirmed its support for Kyiv, while Russian hackers retaliate with cyberattacks on Italian institutions.

Ukraine and European security: At the Paris summit, Meloni calls for European unity in addressing security threats but expresses reservations about sending troops to Ukraine. Defence minister Crosetto urges Europe to take a unified stance while engaging with Trump.

Migration policy push: Meloni meets EU officials to accelerate the implementation of the EU migration pact. She advocates for expanding the "Albania model" of offshore migrant processing centres and stresses the need for clear policies on repatriation.

Campi Flegrei earthquakes: A flurry of tremors, including two 3.9-magnitude earthquakes, shook the Campi Flegrei area near Naples, raising fresh concerns about volcanic activity in the highly seismic area.

Sanremo Festival sparks gender debate: This year’s Sanremo Music Festival top-five lineup is entirely male, triggering backlash over gender representation in the competition. The winner was Olly.

For daily News from Italy in English see the News section of our website.

Italy's main news headlines from 8-14 February 2025.

Pope Francis hospitalised: Pope Francis was admitted to Rome's Gemelli Hospital to receive medical treatment and undergo diagnostic tests for an ongoing bout of bronchitis which has caused breathing difficulties for the 88-year-old pontiff. The programme of the Vatican's upcoming Jubilee of Artists has been modified accordingly.

Crosetto fraud case: Italian defence minister Guido Crosetto is taking legal action after his name and voice were fraudulently used in a scam targeting businesspeople. The perpetrators allegedly posed as Crosetto to solicit funds for fake ransom payments.

Constitutional court appointments: The Italian parliament has successfully appointed four judges to the constitutional court, filling four vacancies, after talks between prime minister Giorgia Meloni and opposition leader Elly Schlein of the centre-left Partito Democratico (PD), with both leaders expressing satisfaction.

Lega congress: Deputy premier and Lega leader Matteo Salvini is preparing for his party's congress, set for 5-6 April. The event will be crucial for securing his re-election as party secretary, especially as discontent grows within the party’s traditional northern strongholds in Veneto and Lombardy. In an effort to consolidate his position, Salvini is relying on increased support from southern delegates. Internal divisions within Lega have surfaced, with critics questioning Salvini’s leadership direction and electoral strategy.

Judiciary conflict: Giorgia Meloni is set to meet Cesare Parodi, the newly elected president of the National Association of Magistrates (ANM), on 5 March. The meeting comes amid growing tensions between the government and the judiciary over legal reforms and controversial cases. Key discussion points will include the government’s push to separate the careers of judges and prosecutors; ongoing disputes over the transfer of migrants to Albania; and accusations by the secret services that Rome’s chief prosecutor, Francesco Lo Voi, leaked classified documents involving sensitive data on Gaetano Caputi, Meloni’s chief of staff. The government’s criticism of judicial decisions, particularly regarding migration and corruption cases, has further fuelled the divide. Meanwhile the ANM has confirmed a nationwide strike on 27 February in response to the government’s proposed judicial reforms.

Albania migration centres: The Italian government is facing mounting criticism over its costly and ineffective migration centres in Albania. Initially intended to process asylum seekers, the underutilised centres have resulted in job losses and financial waste. Plans to convert them into repatriation centres have encountered legal and financial obstacles, exacerbating political backlash. Opposition parties are demanding an immediate halt to the project, citing its failure and mismanagement, while Albanian prime minister Edi Rama has stated that the agreement will not be modified, complicating the government’s plans.

Spyware case: Former prime minister Matteo Renzi has called for the government to be fully transparent about allegations that it used Trojan spyware to monitor journalists and political figures. The accusations, which suggest misuse of surveillance technology for political purposes, have sparked an official investigation. The government denies any wrongdoing, claiming the spyware was used exclusively for national security. However, opposition parties remain sceptical and are pushing for greater oversight of intelligence operations.

ICC vs. Italy: The International Criminal Court (ICC) is investigating Italy’s expulsion of the Libyan general Almasri, wanted for alleged war crimes. The Italian government has criticised the court’s handling of the case and is preparing a legal response.

Assisted suicide law: Tuscany has become the first Italian region to regulate medically assisted suicide, based on a 2019 constitutional court ruling, in the absence of national legislation. The centre-left majority on the regional council passed the law despite opposition from Meloni’s government, which may seek to challenge it in court.

Coalition tensions: The governing coalition is facing internal rifts over economic policies. Lega is advocating for a broad tax amnesty, allowing overdue tax payments to be settled without penalties. Meanwhile, Forza Italia prefers targeted tax reductions for workers. Another contentious issue is the proposal to turn general practitioners (GPs) into public employees, which Forza Italia opposes due to cost concerns. Additionally, Lega is pushing for greater regional autonomy, with Friuli-Venezia Giulia governor Massimiliano Fedriga urging the government to restart discussions.

Mafia arrests: A large-scale anti-mafia operation in Palermo led to the arrest of 183 individuals linked to Cosa Nostra. Authorities revealed that the Sicilian mafia is actively recruiting new members and utilising advanced technology for criminal activities. Meloni praised the operation as a testament to the state’s commitment to combating organised crime.

Foibe commemoration: President Sergio Mattarella led a ceremony commemorating victims of the Foibe massacres, stressing the importance of historical reconciliation. He emphasised that remembrance should not reignite old conflicts but instead foster unity.

Italy-Israel relations: Matteo Salvini visited Israel, meeting with government officials, including prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He reaffirmed Italy’s commitment to supporting Trump’s Middle East strategy, calling for a permanent end to Islamic terrorism and violence.

Elba storm: A severe storm hit the Italian island of Elba, leading to flooding and emergency rescues. Rising water levels trapped dozens of people in their cars and homes, prompting intervention from local authorities, and causing significant damage to infrastructure.

For daily News from Italy in English see the News section of our website.

Italy's main news headlines from 1-7 February 2025.

Almasri Case: International and political fallout: A Sudanese refugee has filed a complaint with the International Criminal Court (ICC) against the Italian government for releasing Osama Almasri Najim, Libya’s chief of judicial police, who was allegedly responsible for the torture of him and his wife in 2019. While no investigation has been opened yet, the move has caused diplomatic tensions. Justice minister Carlo Nordio has blamed the controversial release of Almasri - who is accused of crimes including murder, rape and torture - on a flawed arrest warrant issued by the ICC. Interior minister Matteo Piantedosi reiterated that Almasri was expelled because he posed a national security risk. Foreign minister Antonio Tajani suggested that an investigation should be opened into the actions of the ICC, while prime minister Giorgia Meloni has sought to distance herself from the controversy, defending her actions as protecting national interests. Meanwhile the opposition continues its attacks, demanding that Meloni report to parliament, claiming that Nordio and Piantedosi failed to provide sufficient explanations.

Spyware scandal: Government under pressure: A major controversy erupted when Israeli spyware firm Paragon Solutions terminated its contract with clients in Italy - according to reports in The Guardian and Haaretz - following allegations that its product was used to target critics of the Italian government. Opposition parties demanded explanations from Meloni, Piantedosi and Nordio. The European Union has condemned any illegal data access attempts and is monitoring the situation closely. Reports indicate that at least seven Italians, including Luca Casarini, head of the NGO Mediterranea Saving Humans, and Francesco Cancellato, the editor-in-chief of news outlet Fanpage, were targeted by the Graphite spyware. This military-grade surveillance technology is capable of infiltrating even encrypted smartphones. Both Casarini and Cancellato were alerted by Meta (WhatsApp's parent company) regarding potential unauthorised access to their data. The government denies any involvement of Italian intelligence agencies in the spyware case and has asked the National Cybersecurity Agency to investigate the matter.

Fratelli d'Italia and Lega: Internal conflict exposed: A newly published book has revealed internal Fratelli d'Italia (FdI) party chats spanning from 2018 to today, exposing the ongoing tensions between Giorgia Meloni’s FdI and Matteo Salvini’s Lega. The messages show harsh criticisms of Salvini from Meloni and other FdI leaders, further proving that relations between the governing coalition partners remain strained. This revelation adds to the growing speculation about a deeper rift within the right-wing alliance.

Niqab in Schools: Calls for regulation: Education minister Giuseppe Valditara has called for a law to regulate the use of the niqab in schools, following a request for clarification from a high school in Monfalcone, a northeastern town that is home to a large Bengali community. Teachers at the school privately lift the niqab of five female students in order to identify them and ensure the girls can attend school, according to the principal. Valditara's proposal is likely to spark further debate regarding religious expression and integration policies in Italy.

World Ski Championships: Brignone takes silver: At the Ski World Championships in Saalbach, Austria, Italian skier Federica Brignone secured second place in the Super-G event, while Sofia Goggia finished sixth. The result adds to Italy’s success in international skiing competitions, further raising expectations for the upcoming races.

Scam probe: Minister’s name used for fraud: Authorities are investigating a fraudulent telephone scheme in which scammers requested money in the name of defence minister Guido Crosetto. The probe aims to uncover those respo