This morning Minister Antonio Tajani participated in the extraordinary Foreign Affairs Council convened in virtual format by EU High Representative Kaja Kallas following the clashes between Israel and Iran in recent days.
The extraordinary Foreign Affairs Council enabled the Minister to underline the Italian position in favour of an immediate return to political dialogue to avoid an escalation in the Middle East. The Minister reaffirmed that, according to Italy, Iran should not have the nuclear bomb; that Israel has the right to self-defence and that the protection of civilians is crucial. According to the Foreign Minister, it is also necessary to resume the negotiations that the United States and Iran had initiated directly with Oman’s mediation. Minister Tajani reaffirmed that Italy is against suspending the EU Association Agreement with Israel because it is essential for Europe to keep open every channel of dialogue with Israeli society.
During his speech, Minister Tajani reported to his EU colleagues on the outcome of the conversations held in recent days with the Foreign Ministers of Israel, Iran and the main countries in the region, as well as with the Director General of the IAEA, Rafael Grossi. With specific reference to the nuclear issue, Minister Tajani underlined Italy’s support for Oman’s attempts to keep a negotiating channel open between the United States and Iran. He believes that an active role for the European Union will be necessary and useful: “In this crisis, the Union needs to take decisive steps to bring the region closer to a political solution and to consolidate itself as an international political player capable of being effectively present on the world scene”.
While recalling his contacts with Iranian Minister Araghchi on the need to keep navigation in the Strait of Hormuz safe, Minister Tajani underlined the importance of the EU’s “Aspides” operation in the Red Sea: “It is a mission in defence of the freedom of maritime traffic, an operation decided and made operational by the European Union”.
The situation in Gaza was also addressed. Minister Tajani reiterated the urgency of an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages and a negotiation process leading to the “two peoples – two States” solution. Minister Tajani renewed the appeal for full access of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, recalling the food and health aid operations under the Food for Gaza program.
