Italy Aligns with U.S. on Gaza, Sparks Domestic Backlash
In a high-stakes diplomatic maneuver, Italy has publicly endorsed former President Donald Trump’s controversial Gaza reconstruction and governance plan—pledging to formally recognize a Palestinian state, but only under strict conditions that exclude Hamas from power .
The announcement, made by senior Italian lawmakers on October 2, 2025, comes amid massive public protests across Rome, Milan, and Naples, where citizens are demanding unconditional support for Palestinian statehood and an end to arms exports to Israel .
Italy’s Conditional Recognition Framework
According to government sources, Italy’s position hinges on a three-part test:
- Full release of all remaining Israeli hostages held by Hamas;
- Complete exclusion of Hamas from any future Palestinian governing authority;
- Commitment to peaceful coexistence with Israel by a new Palestinian leadership.
“We support a two-state solution—but not one where a designated terrorist organization holds the reins,” said Foreign Affairs Committee Chair Lucia Borgonzoni .
Public Opinion vs. Government Policy
The official stance sharply contrasts with growing public sentiment. Recent polling shows:
| Issue | Public Support (%) | Government Position |
|---|---|---|
| Unconditional recognition of Palestinian state | 68% | Conditional only |
| Halt arms sales to Israel | 72% | No change in policy |
| Back Trump’s Gaza plan | 29% | Officially endorsed |
What Is Trump’s Gaza Plan?
Though details remain sparse, the Trump-backed proposal reportedly includes:
- Temporary U.S.-led administration in Gaza post-war;
- Massive reconstruction fund financed by Gulf states and Western allies;
- Demilitarization of Gaza and dismantling of Hamas’s governing structure;
- Pathway to Palestinian statehood under new, internationally vetted leadership.
Critics argue the plan undermines Palestinian self-determination, while supporters call it the “only realistic path” to peace.
EU Divisions Deepen
Italy’s move puts it at odds with countries like Spain and Ireland, which have already recognized Palestinian statehood unconditionally. Meanwhile, Germany and the Netherlands remain aligned with Italy’s conditional approach—highlighting a fragmented European stance .
[INTERNAL_LINK:Palestinian Statehood] | [INTERNAL_LINK:Italy Foreign Policy]
