Meloni Assures Protection for Italians in Gaza Aid Flotilla Amid Israeli Threats

Rome: Premier Giorgia Meloni has pledged that her government will take necessary steps to protect Italians participating in the Global Sumud Flotilla, an initiative aimed at delivering aid to Gaza. This assurance comes in response to a letter from Elly Schlein, leader of the opposition center-left Democratic Party (PD).

According to Ansa News Agency, Schlein expressed concerns about the safety of the flotilla after Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir announced plans to seize the vessels and detain those onboard, treating them as terrorism suspects. Among the participants are a PD Member of the European Parliament and a PD Lower House Member, highlighting the political significance of the mission.

Meloni acknowledged the potential risks and symbolic nature of the initiative but emphasized the importance of utilizing existing humanitarian channels to avoid exposing participants to danger. She assured that the Italian government is committed to ensuring the safety and security of its citizens ab
road, as it has consistently done in the past.

The Premier suggested that there are “more effective” alternatives for delivering aid to Gaza. She highlighted the Italian Government’s “Food for Gaza” humanitarian initiative, which has successfully distributed over 200 tonnes of essential supplies, including food and medical aid, to even the most isolated areas of the Strip.