Italian PM Meloni Condemns Attack on Iranian Girls' School, Clarifies Italy's Stance on Middle East

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni strongly condemned an attack on a girls' primary school in Minab, southern Iran, on March 11, 2026, calling for the swift identification of those responsible. Meloni made these remarks while addressing the Senate ahead of the EU Leaders' Summit scheduled for March 19-20, outlining Italy's foreign policy position.

Meloni emphasized that Italy is not involved in the escalating crisis in the Middle East, which she noted intensified following alleged attacks by the United States and Israel on Iran on February 28, and subsequent Iranian retaliation. She argued that the current international crisis, characterized by a breakdown in international law and multilateral organizations, began with Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022 and has since spread to the Middle East.

The Prime Minister clarified that Italy is not participating in any US or Israeli interventions against Iran. She confirmed that communication channels remain open for nuclear negotiations with Tehran, expressing concern that Iran's 60% uranium enrichment could trigger a nuclear arms race.

Regarding the use of US bases in Italy, Meloni stated that their operation is governed by 1954 agreements, allowing for technical authorizations for logistical and non-kinetic operations.