Italy’s right-wing government has joined a growing chorus of international voices urging Israel to end its military offensive in Gaza, marking a significant shift in tone from one of Israel’s most steadfast European allies. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani told parliament on Tuesday that while Israel’s initial response to the October 7 Hamas attack was understandable, the ongoing military campaign has taken an “unacceptable form.”
“The legitimate reaction of the Israeli government to a terrible and senseless act of terrorism is unfortunately taking absolutely dramatic and unacceptable forms, which we call on Israel to stop immediately,” Tajani said during a heated parliamentary session. He emphasized the urgency of ending the bombing and reestablishing humanitarian aid, adding, “Respect for international humanitarian law must be restored.”
Tajani also dismissed proposals to expel Palestinians from Gaza, calling such an idea “not and will never be an acceptable option.” His remarks signal growing discomfort within Europe’s conservative leadership over the war’s humanitarian toll, which has drawn mounting global criticism.
Italy’s appeal echoes similar statements from Germany, France, Canada, and the United Kingdom — all of which have stepped up calls for an immediate ceasefire. British Foreign Secretary David Lammy recently denounced extreme rhetoric from Israeli ministers and announced punitive measures, including sanctions on West Bank settlers and the suspension of trade negotiations with Israel.
The political pressure is intensifying across Europe. In Italy, opposition parties are organizing a mass demonstration in Rome to advocate for Palestinian statehood. Meanwhile, former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert added his voice to the dissent, describing the conflict as a “private political war” waged by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and calling Israel’s current military actions “indefensible.”
Despite a new aid distribution mechanism recently implemented by Israel, criticism remains over its effectiveness and fairness. Humanitarian organizations warn that the setup forces desperate Gazans to travel long distances, placing further strain on an already devastated civilian population.
Tajani’s stance marks a notable departure in Italy’s traditionally strong support for Israel, underscoring a shifting global consensus demanding both justice and immediate humanitarian intervention.
