Meloni rules out Iran attacks
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said Italy will not take part in military attacks against Iran, reaffirming Rome’s position as tensions between Washington and Tehran continue to escalate. Speaking to reporters at the NATO summit in Ankara, Meloni said Italy had maintained a clear line since the start of the conflict and would not join strikes on Iranian targets. Her comments underline Rome’s effort to remain aligned with Western allies while avoiding direct involvement in military action against Iran.
Italy had already signaled caution earlier in the crisis. In March, Rome denied permission for US military aircraft bound for the Middle East to land at the Sigonella air base in Sicily, a move that reflected Meloni’s reluctance to allow Italian territory to be used for operations linked to Iran. Her latest remarks at NATO come as the alliance faces pressure over Iran, defence spending and wider Middle East security.
Iran warns of action
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi responded to recent US rhetoric by saying Iran would not answer “vulgarity with vulgarity,” but would respond “with action” and courage. His remarks came after President Donald Trump made sharp comments about Iran during the NATO summit and after renewed US strikes on Iranian targets. Araghchi’s statement added to the confrontational tone between Tehran and Washington, even as diplomatic channels remain under strain.
Separately, Iranian official Ezzatollah Zarghami claimed Trump had been “within reach” while in Turkey but said Iran did not target him in order to preserve relations with neighbouring countries. The claim was not independently verified, and it was presented by Zarghami as part of Iran’s wider retaliation rhetoric. He also called for Turkey’s ambassador to be summoned over allegations that Trump ordered attacks on Iran while attending the summit.
NATO summit under pressure
The remarks from Meloni and Iranian officials show how the Iran crisis is affecting NATO diplomacy. Italy is trying to preserve its relationship with the United States while setting limits on military participation. For US-based readers, the key issue is whether Washington can maintain allied support while expanding pressure on Tehran. Meloni’s position suggests that some European partners may back diplomacy and deterrence, but not direct attacks on Iran.
