Italy has suspended its defence cooperation agreement with Israel, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni announced, halting military collaboration between the two countries and signalling growing diplomatic tensions.
According to Meloni, the military pact between Italy and Israel had been approaching its renewal deadline, but the government has decided to cancel the automatic extension process. The move effectively pauses ongoing defence cooperation and planned joint projects.
The agreement, originally signed in 2016, covered collaboration in military technology, equipment and defence research. Under its terms, the pact required renewal every five years to remain in effect.
Italian officials said the suspension reflects changing political and security considerations surrounding the regional situation.
The decision also follows recent remarks by Italy’s foreign minister, Antonio Tajani, during a visit to Lebanon. Tajani criticised Israeli bombardments that he said targeted civilians, describing them as unacceptable — comments that reportedly influenced Rome’s stance on the defence arrangement.
The suspension marks a notable shift in Italy’s defence relations with Israel. Authorities have not yet clarified whether the agreement could be reinstated or replaced with a revised framework in the future.
Observers say the move reflects increasing scrutiny within parts of Europe over the ongoing conflict in the region.