Rome – Italy’s government is facing growing domestic criticism over its decision to participate as an observer in the inaugural meeting of the U.S.-led Gaza Peace Board, scheduled for Thursday in Washington. Opposition parties have condemned the move, arguing it undermines the United Nations and represents an undue alignment with the United States.
Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani defended the government’s position to the Italian Parliament on Tuesday, , asserting that Italy’s absence from discussions concerning peace in the Mediterranean would be “politically incomprehensible” and potentially conflict with Article 11 of the Italian Constitution, which promotes the pursuit of peace. He emphasized that Rome sought a “balanced and respectful” approach to its constitutional obligations by attending in observer status.
The Board of Peace, initiated by U.S. President Donald Trump, aims to discuss reconstruction plans for Gaza and has expanded its scope to address other global conflicts. More than 20 countries are expected to attend the meeting, including several Middle Eastern nations such as Turkey, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Qatar, as well as Indonesia.
Critics, however, express concern that the Board could rival the authority of the United Nations. Lawmakers from the Five Star Movement (M5S) stated that Italy’s participation makes it “the only Western European and G7 nation” involved, alongside countries like Albania, Kosovo, Cyprus, Hungary, and Romania. They characterized this as “another act of subservience” to the United States, distancing Italy from other leading European nations.
Anna Ascani, a deputy from the Democratic Party, echoed these concerns, stating via social media that Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni was prioritizing alliance over national dignity. Riccardo Magi, secretary of +Europa, accused the government of “scodinzolando” – essentially “wagging its tail” – to the United States, suggesting a lack of independent foreign policy.
Tajani countered these criticisms, stating that he consistently raised constitutional concerns during discussions with U.S. Officials, including Secretary of State Antony Blinken. He also highlighted Italy’s ongoing commitment to the region, pointing to its role in securing a ceasefire and providing humanitarian aid to Gaza through initiatives like “Food for Gaza.”
The Italian government has been grappling with the decision to join the Board for some time. Prime Minister Meloni initially delayed a decision in , citing constitutional incompatibilities related to the transfer of sovereignty and ensuring equality among member states. Article 11 of the Italian Constitution stipulates that any transfer of sovereign powers must occur within international organizations that uphold peace and justice under conditions of equality.
Despite these reservations, Tajani emphasized Italy’s strategic interest in remaining engaged. “It’s not a smart choice…to exclude ourselves from a body that is, in any case, interesting,” he said, while also acknowledging that “no body can replace the United Nations.”
Italy is actively involved in supporting the security forces of the Palestinian Authority, with a team of diplomats and military personnel stationed within a civil-military coordination center. Italian Carabinieri are involved in training Palestinian security officials in Jordan, and participate in European Union missions focused on training Palestinian police forces.
The European Union has confirmed its participation in the Board, with the Presidency of the Council and a representative from the Commission attending the Gaza reconstruction-specific portion of the meeting. The EU has stressed that its involvement is focused on supporting the needs of Gazan citizens and reconstruction efforts, and does not intend to become a full member of the Board.
Tajani announced that Italy’s Special Envoy for Gaza, Ambassador Archi, is currently on a mission to Riyadh and Abu Dhabi, exploring new avenues for cooperation in the reconstruction of Gaza. This includes engaging with businesses, associations, local authorities, healthcare institutions, universities, and non-profit organizations.
The first meeting of the Board of Peace is scheduled for at the Institute of Peace in Washington, D.C. Trump has stated that member states have pledged over $5 billion for humanitarian aid and reconstruction efforts, and that a multinational force will be established to maintain security and peace in the region.
The debate surrounding Italy’s participation reflects a broader tension between maintaining transatlantic alliances and upholding national constitutional principles, as well as concerns about the potential impact of the U.S.-led initiative on the established international order.
