Italy Ready to Deploy Peacekeepers in Gaza, Says Premier Meloni

Sharm el sheikh: Italy is ready to do its bit in Gaza, Premier Giorgia Meloni said after the Gaza Peace Summit in Sharm El Sheikh Monday, adding that the recognition of the State of Palestine was closer after the peace deal and that Rome would deploy peacekeepers if the United Nations asked.

According to Ansa News Agency, Meloni expressed Italy’s commitment to contributing positively to the situation in Gaza. She highlighted the country’s readiness to participate in peacekeeping efforts and emphasized the potential recognition of Palestine as a state as a result of the peace process. Meloni remarked on the historic nature of the day and expressed pride in Italy’s humanitarian efforts for the people of Gaza, as well as its role in facilitating a cessation of hostilities.

Meloni clarified that Italy’s recognition of Palestine would be contingent upon the conditions set by its Parliament. She also referenced Italy’s ongoing involvement in training the Palestinian Police through its Carabinieri forces and participation in the EU mission in Rafah. The Premier assured that Italy is prepared to enhance its presence and participate in a stabilization force, subject to parliamentary approval.

Meloni conveyed her hope for unanimous support in Parliament for Italy’s involvement in the peacekeeping mission, stating that the political will on her part is strong, provided it is requested. She stressed that the mission would focus on ceasefire monitoring rather than interposition, necessitating a UN resolution for approval and subsequent parliamentary consideration for Italy’s participation.