In a high-stakes address to the Senate today, March 11, 2026, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni detailed Italy’s official stance on the escalating Iran crisis. Amidst growing international tension, the Premier delivered a message of caution, humanitarian concern, and a steadfast commitment to national sovereignty.
The core of Meloni’s speech was a definitive rejection of military involvement. Addressing the concerns of both the public and the opposition, she stated:
“Italy is not at war, and it will not go to war.”
While acknowledging the complexity of the regional threats, the Prime Minister clarified that Italy’s role remains focused on the protection of its military contingents in the Gulf and the safety of Italian citizens abroad. She emphasized that national interests, particularly regarding energy security, would be defended through diplomatic channels and defensive posturing rather than offensive action.
Condemnation of the Minab Massacre
One of the most solemn moments of the session occurred when Meloni addressed the massacre of children in Minab. The Premier expressed deep solidarity with the families of the victims and issued a sharp critique of the recent escalations:
Italy formally condemns the violence that led to the deaths of minors, calling for immediate accountability.
Meloni described the military actions by the U.S. and Israel as “unilateral interventions” that fall outside the framework of international law, noting that these actions were taken without prior consultation with European partners.
A significant portion of the debate focused on the role of American military installations on Italian soil. Meloni sought to reassure the Senate by outlining two key points:
No formal requests have been received for the use of Italian bases for “kinetic” (combat) operations.
The Premier guaranteed that any shift from routine logistics to active combat support would require a Parliamentary vote, ensuring the decision remains in the hands of Italy’s elected representatives.
Beyond foreign policy, the Prime Minister addressed the domestic impact of the crisis. With global oil prices fluctuating, Meloni announced that the government is prepared to implement “mobile excise duties” to shield Italian families and businesses from a potential surge in fuel costs.
While the center-right majority largely supported the speech, the opposition remained divided. Some factions called for a more aggressive diplomatic push for a ceasefire, while others expressed skepticism regarding the long-term neutrality of the Italian bases.