“We must move from a ceasefire to a genuine and lasting peace. The process will be long and complex, and there may be moments of uncertainty, but the objectives are clear: stability, governance, and the reconstruction of Palestine are the fundamental pillars of this path”.
Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani spoke in Paris at the Summit on Palestine, bringing together Europe and the Arab world. How do you assess the agreement on Gaza? Are there still critical issues?
“The assessment is more than positive. The real challenge will begin after the ceasefire. We must build peace day by day. We will see what the internal political consequences emerge in Israel and how the agreement will be implemented in practice. But I am optimistic — I believe we can achieve our goal. This could truly mark a historic turning point, laying the foundation for a new Middle East, full of extraordinary opportunities”.
What role has Italy played?
“We have consistently supported the American initiative, and the government — with Parliament’s backing — approved a motion endorsing the peace plan”.
You have always supported the ‘two peoples, two states’ principle…
“That must remain the ultimate framework — the project we must work towards. It is the position of the Italian Government. It will not be easy, because no one should believe they can erase the other from the map”.
And what role will Italy play now?
“I told all the ministers present in Paris that we intend to be leading actors — not only in matters of security, but also in reconstruction”.
In what way?
“We will focus on infrastructure, with the active involvement of Italian companies. We are also looking at healthcare, education, universities, and the training of a new Palestinian leadership. We must act decisively and immediately to address Gaza’s grave health emergency, working alongside international institutions. Italy can help the Palestinians establish an effective healthcare system.
Italian hospitals already operating in Jordan and Egypt could be involved through partnership with our national medical facilities. It is a proposal that deserves careful government consideration”.
Would Italy send troops to Gaza?
“We are ready to do so, provided the necessary conditions are in place.
Our Carabinieri are already deployed in Jericho and Rafah and have in-depth knowledge of the area — they are training local police forces. But genuine stabilisation, a real peace agreement, the active participation of Arab countries, and a United Nations resolution will all be essential”.
On the budget and income tax cuts — where do things stand?
“We are almost there. Forza Italia has proposed extending the reduction of the tax rate from 35% to 33% for incomes up to EUR 60,000. It’s a concrete measure to support the middle class”.
Regional elections are approaching. Are you satisfied with the agreements reached in Veneto, Puglia and Campania?
“Very much so. Now we must work to win. We are fully committed to confirming our success in Veneto and to making gains in Campania and Puglia. Tuscany will be the first to vote”.
Winning Tuscany — do you really think it’s possible?
“We must win the hearts and trust of the Tuscan people, and I believe it’s possible for a simple reason: things have changed since the last regional elections. The centre-left no longer exists — there is only a fragmented left, with three parties competing to prove who is further to the left. Reintroducing the citizen’s income means returning to welfare dependency. Opposing the new runway at Florence Airport — an issue dividing even the left — means halting Tuscany and its economy”.
Forza Italia is growing. Do you see a renewed interest in the political centre?
“When the left leaves the centre ground vacant, it means that part of its electorate is seeking a new point of reference. We intend to be that reference point”.
Recent results seem to support your view.
“Polls show we are growing, and recent successes in Calabria and the Marche confirm it. Voters are rewarding us because we have presented ourselves as a reassuring force: people want a government that is competent, responsible, and balanced — one with broad shoulders to lean on. We also appeal to former Socialist and Christian Democrat voters, who are numerous in Tuscany. Moderate voters can look to us with confidence”.
On security and migrant detention centres (CPRs) in Tuscany — what is your approach?
“Migration must be addressed seriously. Regular migrants are essential to our economy and our businesses, but irregular migrants must be stopped — they cannot do as they please and must be returned to their countries of origin”.
What are your priorities for Tuscany?
“Healthcare, families, and infrastructure — including Florence Airport. We have repeatedly shown that we can deliver for Tuscany. When the floods hit Florence and Prato, we provided tangible solutions. We resolved the issue of tariffs that had blocked exports of products such as finocchiona to the United States. And, on security, thanks to our work with Minister Piantedosi, we increased law enforcement presence at Florence Station. Concrete actions — that’s what defines us”.
