Schlein Criticizes Meloni Over Protest Criminalization and Gaza Stance

Rome: Democratic Party (PD) leader Elly Schlein criticized Premier Giorgia Meloni on Thursday for her stance on the Global Sumud Flotilla and the general strike following Israel’s interception of aid boats en route to Gaza. Schlein addressed the Lower House after Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani provided an update on the Italians involved in the flotilla.

According to Ansa News Agency, Schlein expressed disapproval of the Prime Minister’s approach, stating that while Meloni condemned the flotilla activists, she remained silent on Gaza to avoid conflict with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Schlein urged Meloni to adopt a more balanced role, emphasizing the need for leadership amid emerging peace opportunities.

Schlein further criticized the government’s lack of condemnation concerning Netanyahu’s actions against the flotilla, highlighting the outcry from Italians unwilling to be complicit. She condemned the government’s efforts to suppress these voices, insisting on the importance of allowing protests and protecting workers’ rights.

Addressing the government’s position on the US peace plan for Gaza, Schlein clarified that the PD could not support it without recognizing the state of Palestine. She stressed that peace is intrinsically linked to Palestinian statehood and criticized the government’s strategy as divisive. Schlein maintained that recognition should be unconditional, despite the premier’s stance that Italy will only recognize Palestine under specific conditions involving Hamas and Israeli hostages.