On September 23, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said that his government would only recognize the State of Palestine if two key conditions were met: Hamas is not allowed to participate in any form of government, and all Israeli hostages must be released.
Speaking in the US, where Meloni is attending the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, the Italian leader emphasized: "We are not against recognizing Palestine, but it is important to determine the right priorities." The recognition is only meaningful, she said, when Palestine is led by a reported and non-terrorist government.
Meloni also said the government would soon submit a resolution to the National Assembly for formal discussion on the issue, adding that the final decision must be within the framework of democratic consensus in Italy.
The above statement clearly reflects the viewpoint of the right-wing coalition government headed by Meloni - which has long been considered one of Israel's closest allies in the European Union (EU).
In contrast to the stance of the UK, Canada, France and some G7 countries that recognized the State of Palestine in September, Italy continues to side with Israel and demands that Hamas be held responsible for the current violence.
Meloni said the international community needs to put more pressure on Hamas, rather than focusing only on Israel. Hamas itself has fueled the war and is still blocking all efforts for reconciliation by refusing to release hostages, she said.
Italy's tough stance comes as the international community increases efforts to promote a two-state solution - seen as the only feasible path to end the spiral of violence in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank.
However, Italy's view shows deep division within the EU, where many countries support early recognition of Palestine to promote the peace process.
Observers say that linking Palestine recognition with specific conditions for Hamas and hostages shows that Italy wants to protect strategic relations with Israel, while reassuring domestic conservative forces - which are an important support of the Italian government.
Meanwhile, the wave of support for Palestine in Europe is spreading, putting diplomatic pressure on countries that are still hesitant, including Italy. While it is unclear when Italy will make a final decision, Melonis statement has somewhat determined the line of stance: Only a Palestine without Hamas and no more hostages will receive recognition from Italy.
