Italy to Support UN Resolution on Palestinian Statehood, Open to Sanctions on Israeli Hardliners

Deputy Premier and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani announced Thursday that Italy will endorse a United Nations resolution on Palestinian statehood later this month, underscoring Rome’s commitment to a two-state solution but stopping short of full recognition of Palestine.

“On September 22 in New York we will adhere with conviction to a declaration within the framework of the United Nations, with the goal of building a Palestinian state and ending hostilities,” Tajani said during an event in Palermo.

The foreign minister has previously stressed that Italy, unlike some European partners, does not yet consider conditions suitable for recognizing Palestine as a sovereign state. Addressing lawmakers in the Lower House last week, Tajani cautioned that premature recognition “would not produce any effect, except to push peace away.”

Meanwhile, diplomatic sources confirmed that Italy signaled openness to possible sanctions targeting far-right Israeli ministers, following discussions at the Committee of Permanent Representatives (COREPER) in Brussels on Wednesday.

At the meeting, the European Commission presented proposals to exert pressure on Israel in response to escalating violence in Gaza. Italy was among the member states that participated in the debate, the sources said. Rome reiterated its backing of the forthcoming UN resolution, voiced support for sanctions against violent settlers, and indicated it was “available to discuss sanctions against extremist Israeli ministers.”

The developments reflect Italy’s attempt to balance its longstanding support for Israel with growing European calls for stronger action amid the worsening conflict.

Photo: Deputy Premier and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani