Italy strongly criticized Israeli attacks on Palestinian civilians in Gaza, stating that the situation is increasingly difficult and no longer justifiable. Defence Minister Guido Crosetto expressed despair over the situation and emphasized the need to distinguish between Hamas and the Palestinian people.
Mounting Civilian Casualties
In one of the strongest criticisms Rome has made so far against Israel’s campaign, Defence Minister Guido Crosetto told SkyTG24 TV, “There is an increasingly difficult situation, in which the Palestinian people are being squeezed without regard for the rights of innocent men, women and children who have nothing to do with Hamas and this can no longer be justified.”
Latest Israeli air strikes in the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah killed at least 35 Palestinians and wounded dozens. Israel stated that the attack was aimed at a Hamas compound, though its top military prosecutor called it “very grave” and expressed regret for any harm to non-combatants.
Calls for Distinction
Crosetto said Italy agreed in principle with the Israeli response to the Oct. 7 assault by Hamas militants on southern Israeli communities. However, he stressed that a distinction must be made between the Islamist group and the Palestinian people. “We are watching the situation with despair,” he added.
On Saturday, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani met Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa in Rome. They reiterated their support for a ceasefire and urged Hamas to release Israeli hostages.
International Stance
Italy has repeatedly affirmed that Israel has a right to defend itself from Hamas. Last week, Rome declared that an International Criminal Court prosecutor’s decision to seek an arrest warrant for Israeli leaders was “unacceptable.”
The ongoing conflict continues to draw international scrutiny and calls for a balanced approach that safeguards civilian lives while addressing security concerns.
