Italian regions break ties with Israel over Gaza conflict
The regions of Emilia-Romagna and Apulia have suspended cooperation with the Israeli government. This decision is a response to actions against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.
Main information
- Emilia-Romagna and Apulia have severed contacts with the Israeli government.
- The decision results from violence against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.
- The Italian Foreign Minister emphasizes that the government conducts foreign policy.
Suspension of cooperation with Israel
Two Italian regions, Emilia-Romagna and Apulia, have decided to sever ties with the Israeli government. The reason for this decision is the actions of the Israeli government towards Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, which have faced international criticism.
Response of regional authorities
Michele de Pascale, governor of Emilia-Romagna, has decided to suspend all official relations between the region and Israel. The move comes as a reaction to the situation in the Gaza Strip, where civilians have been heavily impacted by ongoing violence. In a letter explaining the decision, he highlighted the severe humanitarian toll in the region. He referenced the International Criminal Court's proceedings against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, which concern allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity.
De Pascale emphasized that cooperation will resume only after the cessation of hostilities and the restoration of respect for international law.
The head of Emilia-Romagna’s administration stressed that everyone has a responsibility to take all possible measures, while respecting legal rights and institutional responsibilities, to contribute to ending the violence.
Apulia in solidarity with Palestinians
The Apulian authorities made a similar decision. Governor Michele Emiliano called for the suspension of all forms of cooperation with Netanyahu's government. Emiliano expressed solidarity with Israelis and Jews worldwide who condemn the actions of the Israeli government.
Position of the Italian government
The head of Italian diplomacy, Deputy Prime Minister Antonio Tajani, commented on the regions' decisions, emphasizing that it is the Italian government, not individual regions, that conducts foreign policy. Despite this, the regions decided to express their stance on this issue.
Governor Emiliano stressed that Apulia is not against Israel as a state, but against the policies of Netanyahu's government. These decisions have sparked a wide discussion about the role of regions in international politics.
