On October 7, 2023, the Israeli people experienced one of the most dramatic moments in their history, as recounted by Premier Meloni during a ceremony at the Synagogue of Rome, marking one year since the massacre carried out by Hamas. The Premier emphasized the inhuman aggression perpetrated by Hamas a year ago, which resulted in the deaths of thousands of innocent civilians, including women and children, and the desecration of their bodies. She expressed concern for the hostages still held by Hamas and urged for their safe return home.
Meloni stressed the importance of remembering and strongly condemning the events of a year ago, stating that it is not merely a ritual but the foundation of any political action needed to bring peace to the Middle East. She warned against the increasing reticence in condemning such acts, which she believed signaled a growing and pervasive antisemitism that should concern everyone. Meloni highlighted recent public demonstrations, including one in Rome, which confirmed the existence and strength of hatred towards the Jewish people, underscoring the need to address and combat this hate.
The Premier also reaffirmed Israel’s legitimate right to defend itself and live securely within its borders, while emphasizing the importance of doing so in accordance with international humanitarian law. She expressed concern for the large number of innocent civilian casualties in Gaza, who she believes were victims twice over: first at the hands of Hamas, who used them as human shields, and then as a result of Israeli military operations. Meloni called for de-escalation of the conflict and stressed the need for dialogue and a ceasefire to prevent further consequences of the Hamas attack.
The escalation of conflict in the region was a source of undeniable concern, prompting Meloni to call for concerted efforts towards dialogue and de-escalation. She emphasized the responsibilities of all parties to work towards a ceasefire in Gaza, the release of Israeli hostages, and the stabilization of the Israeli-Lebanese border through full compliance with UN resolutions. Italy, as President of the G7 at the time, was committed to supporting mediation efforts and working towards a lasting political solution based on the two-state perspective. Meloni confirmed continued Italian support for these efforts and pledged to work towards a resolution that would bring lasting peace to the region.
Meloni’s speech highlighted the need for solidarity with Israel and the Jewish people in the face of hostility and violence, while also emphasizing the importance of addressing the root causes of conflict in the Middle East. She called for renewed efforts towards peace, dialogue, and respect for international law to prevent further tragedies and ensure a sustainable and peaceful future for all communities in the region. Meloni’s words underscored the importance of remembrance, condemnation, and proactive political action in response to past atrocities and ongoing conflicts, in the pursuit of a more peaceful and just world for all.
