Italian premier meets Israeli president, stresses need for immediate cease-fire in Gaza
Meloni confirms Rome’s support for US mediation, voices strong concern for humanitarian situation in Gaza
Police officers line up as Pro-Palestinian demonstrators gather outside of Chigi Palace during the meeting between Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni and Israeli President Isaac Herzog, in Rome, Italy, on July 25, 2024.
ROME
Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni met with Israeli President Isaac Herzog on Thursday in Rome, underlining the importance of an immediate cease-fire in the Gaza war, with the release of all hostages.
Meloni also renewed Italy’s commitment to de-escalation in the region, recalling the role played by the Italian contingent at the border with Lebanon through the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) and reiterating “the strong concern for the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip.”
Meloni also assured that Italy will continue to work toward a “two-state solution” in the Middle East, supporting the US mediation and providing assistance to the Palestinian civilian population, including through the Food for Gaza initiative.
During his visit to Rome on Thursday, Herzog also met with Italian President Sergio Mattarella at the Quirinale Palace.
