Italy’s Defence Minister Warns of Safety Concerns for Flotilla in Israeli Waters

Rome: Defence Minister Guido Crosetto stated on Thursday that Italy will not be able to ensure the protection of the Global Sumud Flotilla if it enters Israel’s territorial waters. This statement came as he addressed the Lower House following the recent attack on the flotilla between Tuesday and Wednesday night.

According to Ansa News Agency, Crosetto aligned with Premier Giorgia Meloni’s stance, criticizing the attempt to breach the Israeli blockade to deliver aid to Gaza as irresponsible. He emphasized the need for collective efforts to prevent any incidents involving the flotilla and requested bipartisan support for this cause. In response to the recent attack, an Italian Navy frigate has been dispatched to the region where the flotilla is currently located.

Crosetto expressed concern over the flotilla’s safety outside international waters, noting the involvement of several Italian boats and citizens, including members of the parliament and European Parliament (MEPs). He suggested that the flotilla should consider the Catholic Church’s proposal to deliver the aid to Cyprus, from where the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem could then transport it to Gaza.

The minister questioned the necessity of risking Italian citizens’ safety to deliver aid to Gaza, highlighting the government’s significant support for the people in the region. He asserted that Italy could provide aid within hours and questioned the extent to which the flotilla should proceed with its mission.