Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has publicly condemned recent US and Israeli military strikes against Iran, marking a significant departure from her previously Trump-aligned foreign policy stance. Meloni described the actions as a "massacre" and declared them "outside" international law, joining a broader European chorus of criticism.
The condemnation represents a notable shift for Meloni, who has maintained relatively warm relations with Donald Trump and was often viewed as his closest European ally. Her criticism aligns Italy more closely with traditional EU positions on Middle Eastern conflicts and international law.
Multiple European outlets report that Meloni specifically criticized attacks on Iranian educational facilities and civilian infrastructure. Italy has also indicated it will not participate in any coordinated military actions alongside the US and Israel in the region.
The stance could strain Italy's relationship with both the incoming Trump administration and Israel, while potentially strengthening Meloni's position within EU foreign policy circles. The move suggests European leaders may be preparing for a more independent foreign policy approach as US leadership transitions.