Meloni Accused of Exploiting Flotilla Incident to Divide Nation

Rome: Democratic Party (PD) leader Elly Schlein on Thursday accused Premier Giorgia Meloni of playing the victim after she said the Global Sumud Flotilla was irresponsible and an attempt to cause problems for the government.

According to Ansa News Agency, Schlein criticized Meloni in the Lower House following Defence Minister Guido Crosetto’s report on the week’s attack on the flotilla. Schlein questioned Meloni’s characterization of the flotilla, asking, “So the Flotilla is an act of spite to you and to the government? Stop being a megalomaniac.” Schlein highlighted that the flotilla involved delegations from 44 different countries.

Schlein further accused Meloni of insulting the opposition, claiming she has been “playing the victim for three years” and “dividing the nation.” Additionally, Schlein criticized the government for its stance on the recognition of the State of Palestine, urging, “what are you waiting for?”

Premier Meloni has stated that Italy will recognize Palestine only if Israeli hostages are released and Hamas is removed from Gaza.