A political firestorm has erupted between Italy and NATO following comments made by Secretary General Mark Rutte regarding the use of Italian bases during the U.S.-led "Operation Epic Fury" against Iran. 

Italy Challenges Rutte's Claims On Allowing US Air Operations

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is considering the option of announcing the nation's next general election as early as April, several months before the current parliament's term ends in late 2027, a new report said.


Giorgia Meloni Concerned About Popularity Ratings; Considering Early Elections

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni actively steers transatlantic relations back on track, calling for a swift return to normality with the United States. Following a highly publicized personal misunderstanding with Donald Trump at the G7 summit in France, Rome’s strategic pivot aims to reinforce solidarity and secure the crucial right-wing political alliance.

Trump-Meloni Rift: Italy PM Seeks Reset With US

US-Italy relations have come under fresh strain after Donald Trump accused Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Italy of failing to support Washington against Iran. Expanding a personal feud that began after the G7 Summit, Trump claimed America's allies benefit from US protection while refusing to stand by Washington when it matters most.


Trump-Meloni Rift Deepens: Trump Accuses Meloni Over Iran Stance, Italy Fires Back

US-Italy relations have come under fresh strain after Donald Trump accused Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Italy of failing to support Washington against Iran. Expanding a personal feud that began after the G7 Summit, Trump claimed America's allies benefit from US protection while refusing to stand by Washington when it matters most.

‘Italy, And Its Prime Minister...’: Trump Accuses Italy of Failing US on Iran

A diplomatic firestorm has erupted between U.S. President Donald Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni following the recent G7 Summit in France. President Trump claimed in an interview that PM Meloni "begged" him for a photo-op, a statement Meloni vehemently denied as "completely fabricated." 


Trump-Meloni Spat Intesifies: Italy's FM Cancels His Planned Visit to Washington

A significant diplomatic rift has erupted between Rome and Washington. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani has abruptly canceled his scheduled visit to the United States following comments made by U.S. President Donald Trump in an interview with Italian broadcaster La7.  

In the interview, Trump claimed that Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni had "begged" him for a photograph during the recent G7 summit, asserting that he only obliged because he "felt sorry" for her. Prime Minister Meloni has vehemently rejected the claim, labeling it "completely fabricated" and stating, "Italy and I do not beg."

Italian PM Meloni Accuses Trump of Lying Over G7 Encounter

A significant diplomatic rift has erupted between Rome and Washington. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani has abruptly canceled his scheduled visit to the United States following comments made by U.S. President Donald Trump in an interview with Italian broadcaster La7.  

In the interview, Trump claimed that Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni had "begged" him for a photograph during the recent G7 summit, asserting that he only obliged because he "felt sorry" for her. Prime Minister Meloni has vehemently rejected the claim, labeling it "completely fabricated" and stating, "Italy and I do not beg."


Trump's Photo Claim Ignites Transatlantic Feud With Italian PM

Italy's FM Cancels US Visit Over Trump's Alleged Comments on Meloni

Venice is celebrated globally for its winding canals and historic architecture. However, this iconic Italian destination is facing a severe environmental crisis. The town is gradually sinking into the Adriatic Sea. According to reports from the European Geosciences Union, the ground level is dropping by roughly one to two millimetres every year. Here is a factual look at why this famous water-bound settlement is slowly going underwater and the engineering techniques being used to save it.<h2>The shifting tectonic plates and wooden foundations</h2>The primary cause of the sinking, known scientifically as subsidence, is natural. Venice is built on 116 muddy islands, supported by millions of petrified wooden piles driven into the clay. However, the town sits on the Adriatic tectonic plate, which is slowly shifting and subducting beneath the Apennine Mountains. This geological movement pulls the entire lagoon floor downwards. According to a report by the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, this natural tectonic settling causes the ground to sink continuously, making the wooden foundations increasingly vulnerable.<h2>Historical groundwater extraction</h2>Human industrial activity significantly accelerated the sinking process during the 20th century. In the 1950s and 1960s, local factories pumped massive amounts of fresh groundwater from the deep artesian aquifers beneath the lagoon. This extreme water extraction caused the soft clay and sediment foundations to dry out, compact, and permanently collapse. Although the Italian government officially banned industrial groundwater pumping in the 1970s, the structural damage was already done. The town sank by an estimated 15 centimetres during this short period alone.<h2>Rising sea levels and the Rs 630 billion MOSE project</h2>While the ground continues to sink, the Adriatic Sea is simultaneously rising due to global climate change. This dangerous combination leads to severe tidal flooding events locally known as 'Acqua Alta'. To combat this dual threat, Italy developed the MOSE project. This advanced engineering system features 78 mobile gates lying on the seabed at the three main lagoon inlets. During dangerously high tides, compressed air raises these gates to block the sea water. According to official Italian government data, the massive flood defence project cost approximately 7 billion euros (roughly Rs 630 billion) to complete.&nbsp;While the MOSE barriers currently protect Venice from extreme flooding, the geological sinking remains an ongoing challenge. Travellers visiting the region should strictly follow local environmental guidelines and consider travelling during the off-season to reduce the immense physical strain on the fragile town infrastructure.

Venice is gradually sinking into the Adriatic Sea due to a combination of shifting tectonic plates, historical groundwater extraction, and rising global sea levels. To protect the town from extreme flooding, Italy operates a Rs 630 billion system of 78 mobile gates known as the MOSE project.

Venice is celebrated globally for its winding canals and historic architecture. However, this iconic Italian destination is facing a severe environmental crisis. The town is gradually sinking into the Adriatic Sea. According to reports from the European Geosciences Union, the ground level is dropping by roughly one to two millimetres every year. Here is a factual look at why this famous water-bound settlement is slowly going underwater and the engineering techniques being used to save it. The shifting tectonic plates and wooden foundations The primary cause of the sinking, known scientifically as subsidence, is natural. Venice is built on 116 muddy islands, supported by millions of petrified wooden piles driven into the clay. However, the town sits on the Adriatic tectonic plate, which is slowly shifting and subducting beneath the Apennine Mountains. This geological movement pulls the entire lagoon floor downwards. According to a report by the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, this natural tectonic settling causes the ground to sink continuously, making the wooden foundations increasingly vulnerable. Historical groundwater extraction Human industrial activity significantly accelerated the sinking process during the 20th century. In the 1950s and 1960s, local factories pumped massive amounts of fresh groundwater from the deep artesian aquifers beneath the lagoon. This extreme water extraction caused the soft clay and sediment foundations to dry out, compact, and permanently collapse. Although the Italian government officially banned industrial groundwater pumping in the 1970s, the structural damage was already done. The town sank by an estimated 15 centimetres during this short period alone. Rising sea levels and the Rs 630 billion MOSE project While the ground continues to sink, the Adriatic Sea is simultaneously rising due to global climate change. This dangerous combination leads to severe tidal flooding events locally known as 'Acqua Alta'. To combat this dual threat, Italy developed the MOSE project. This advanced engineering system features 78 mobile gates lying on the seabed at the three main lagoon inlets. During dangerously high tides, compressed air raises these gates to block the sea water. According to official Italian government data, the massive flood defence project cost approximately 7 billion euros (roughly Rs 630 billion) to complete. While the MOSE barriers currently protect Venice from extreme flooding, the geological sinking remains an ongoing challenge. Travellers visiting the region should strictly follow local environmental guidelines and consider travelling during the off-season to reduce the immense physical strain on the fragile town infrastructure.

Venice is gradually sinking into the Adriatic Sea due to a combination of shifting tectonic plates, historical groundwater extraction, and rising global sea levels. To protect the town from extreme flooding, Italy operates a Rs 630 billion system of 78 mobile gates known as the MOSE project.

Why is this Italian town slowly sinking into the sea?

Venice is often romanticised for its winding canals and stunning architecture, but its origins are rooted in survival rather than aesthetics. Spanning 116 islands in a shallow lagoon, this Italian destination was constructed as a fortress against invaders. Understanding how this 'Floating City' was engineered shows a 1,500-year-old history of human resilience. Here is exactly why this iconic location was built entirely on water.<h2>Fleeing mainland invasions</h2>The story begins in the 5th century AD during the collapse of the Western Roman Empire. As Germanic tribes like the Huns and Lombards swept across Italy, mainland residents sought a safe haven. They fled to the marshy, inaccessible mudflats of the Adriatic Sea. The shallow waters and shifting sands formed a natural defence mechanism, making it nearly impossible for land-based armies to launch effective attacks. What started as temporary refugee camps eventually evolved into a permanent, thriving settlement.<h2>An engineering marvel of wooden piles</h2>Building a heavy stone city on soft mud required an unconventional approach. Early settlers drove millions of wooden piles, made from oak and larch, deep into the seabed until they reached a solid layer of compressed clay. Because the wood was submerged in saltwater and deprived of oxygen, it did not rot. Instead, the minerals petrified the timber, turning it into a stone-like foundation. Builders then laid non-porous Istrian stone on top to block corrosive saltwater from reaching the brickwork above.<h2>The modern battle to stay afloat</h2>Despite its brilliant engineering, Venice now faces severe modern threats. Rising sea levels and natural ground subsidence have led to frequent flooding events known as 'Acqua Alta'. To protect the historic infrastructure, Italy developed the MOSE project, a system of 78 mobile gates that rise from the seabed to block high tides. This state-of-the-art flood defence system required a massive investment of roughly $7 billion (Rs 580 billion). While successful in stopping recent floods, the barrier alters lagoon sediment flows, presenting new ecological challenges.&nbsp;&nbsp;Venice stands as a testament to historical engineering, but its fragile ecosystem requires constant protection. Travellers visiting the 116 islands should support sustainable tourism initiatives and travel during off-peak seasons to help reduce the daily physical strain on the sinking city.

Venice is an engineering marvel built across 116 islands in the Adriatic Sea. Originally founded by 5th-century refugees fleeing mainland invasions, the city is supported by millions of petrified wooden piles. Today, it relies on the Rs 580 billion MOSE barrier to survive rising sea levels.

Venice is often romanticised for its winding canals and stunning architecture, but its origins are rooted in survival rather than aesthetics. Spanning 116 islands in a shallow lagoon, this Italian destination was constructed as a fortress against invaders. Understanding how this 'Floating City' was engineered shows a 1,500-year-old history of human resilience. Here is exactly why this iconic location was built entirely on water. Fleeing mainland invasions The story begins in the 5th century AD during the collapse of the Western Roman Empire. As Germanic tribes like the Huns and Lombards swept across Italy, mainland residents sought a safe haven. They fled to the marshy, inaccessible mudflats of the Adriatic Sea. The shallow waters and shifting sands formed a natural defence mechanism, making it nearly impossible for land-based armies to launch effective attacks. What started as temporary refugee camps eventually evolved into a permanent, thriving settlement. An engineering marvel of wooden piles Building a heavy stone city on soft mud required an unconventional approach. Early settlers drove millions of wooden piles, made from oak and larch, deep into the seabed until they reached a solid layer of compressed clay. Because the wood was submerged in saltwater and deprived of oxygen, it did not rot. Instead, the minerals petrified the timber, turning it into a stone-like foundation. Builders then laid non-porous Istrian stone on top to block corrosive saltwater from reaching the brickwork above. The modern battle to stay afloat Despite its brilliant engineering, Venice now faces severe modern threats. Rising sea levels and natural ground subsidence have led to frequent flooding events known as 'Acqua Alta'. To protect the historic infrastructure, Italy developed the MOSE project, a system of 78 mobile gates that rise from the seabed to block high tides. This state-of-the-art flood defence system required a massive investment of roughly $7 billion (Rs 580 billion). While successful in stopping recent floods, the barrier alters lagoon sediment flows, presenting new ecological challenges. Venice stands as a testament to historical engineering, but its fragile ecosystem requires constant protection. Travellers visiting the 116 islands should support sustainable tourism initiatives and travel during off-peak seasons to help reduce the daily physical strain on the sinking city.

Venice is an engineering marvel built across 116 islands in the Adriatic Sea. Originally founded by 5th-century refugees fleeing mainland invasions, the city is supported by millions of petrified wooden piles. Today, it relies on the Rs 580 billion MOSE barrier to survive rising sea levels.

Why is this city built on more than 100 islands?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Visit to Rome With Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni Focused on Strengthening India–Italy Relations Across Trade, Technology, Energy and Security. The Leaders Also Reaffirmed Support for the India–Middle East–europe Economic Corridor (Imec), a Major Global Connectivity Project First Announced at the 2023 G20 Summit. The Visit Also Gained Wide Attention Online After the Viral “Melody Toffee” Moment Between the Two Leaders.


India-Italy Discuss Trade Ties, West Asia Crisis And IMEC

India and Italy have agreed to elevate bilateral ties, marking a significant step forward in strategic cooperation between the two nations. Leaders from both countries discussed expanding collaboration in trade, defence, technology, clean energy, investment and innovation. The talks also focused on strengthening economic partnerships and enhancing cooperation on global and regional challenges.

Modi-Meloni Meet: India, Italy Agree to Elevate Ties 

Narendra Modi and Giorgia Meloni addressed a joint media briefing in Rome, highlighting the rapid growth in India–Italy relations. Meloni said both nations have worked hard to strengthen bilateral cooperation and described ties as “closer than ever before.” The leaders discussed trade, defence, technology, clean energy and global geopolitical challenges as New Delhi and Rome continue to deepen their strategic partnership.


India-Italy Ties: Modi-Meloni Meet Signals New High In India-Italy Strategic Partnership

India and Italy held a key bilateral meeting at the historic Villa Doria Pamphili, the iconic 17th-century estate in Rome known for hosting major diplomatic engagements. Leaders from both nations discussed strengthening cooperation in trade, defence, clean energy, technology, investment and cultural ties. The meeting reflects the growing strategic partnership between India and Italy amid evolving global geopolitical and economic dynamics.


India-Italy Bilateral Meet at 17th Century Villa Doria Pamphili

Narendra Modi has arrived in Rome, Italy, marking the final stop of his five-nation diplomatic tour. The visit is expected to focus on strengthening India–Italy relations, expanding trade cooperation, and discussing global geopolitical developments. The trip comes as India continues to deepen engagement with key European partners across sectors like defence, energy, and technology, highlighting New Delhi’s growing global diplomatic footprint.


PM Modi Arrives In Rome On Final Leg Of High-Profile Five-Nation Tour

Families in Italy are increasingly raising concerns over the impact of social media on minors, prompting calls for stricter limits and stronger digital safety measures. The debate focuses on screen addiction, online safety, mental health, and age-appropriate access to platforms as policymakers and parents push for greater regulation. The issue reflects a wider global conversation around children’s online exposure and social media responsibility.


Italy Social Media Risks: Families Seek to Limit Minors' Platform Use 

Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto dismissed claims that Italy has failed to support the United States, particularly regarding maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz. This comes after US President Donald Trump threatened to withdraw troops from the nation, accusing European nations of not sending their navies to help open the strategic waterway.“I don’t understand the reasons,” Crosetto told the ANSA news agency. He also said that Trump’s claims were not true, saying that “we also made ourselves available for a mission to protect shipping.”“This was greatly appreciated by the American military,” he added.Crosetto continued, “The incredible thing is, they’ve used the Strait of Hormuz, while we haven’t.”Italy hosts seven US military bases with about 13,000 troops, which also provide key capabilities such as air defence systems, assets that could take Italy years, even up to a decade, to replace independently.This comes as Trump continues to criticise NATO allies for not helping the US in opening the Strait of Hormuz amid the Iran war.&nbsp;Earlier on Thursday (Apr 30), while talking to the reporters, Trump was asked whether he would consider pulling US troops out of Italy and Spain. In response, the US president said, Probably … look, why shouldn’t I? Italy has not been of any help to us and Spain has been horrible, absolutely horrible.” He further added that the US has been helping them with Ukraine, when Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine is primarily a NATO concern.US-Italy tensionsThe relations between Rome and Washington came under strain after Italy’s far-right Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni slammed Trump’s attack on Pope Leo, who had condemned the war on Iran. Trump responded by accusing Meloni of lacking courage for refusing to join the conflict. In a follow-up post on his Truth Social account, he shared a The Guardian report on the Sigonella dispute, writing: “Italy wasn’t there for us, we won’t be there for them!Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Italy's Minister of Defence Guido Crosetto rejected US President Donald Trump’s claims, saying Italy supports US efforts in the Strait of Hormuz and has offered naval help.

Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto dismissed claims that Italy has failed to support the United States, particularly regarding maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz. This comes after US President Donald Trump threatened to withdraw troops from the nation, accusing European nations of not sending their navies to help open the strategic waterway. “I don’t understand the reasons,” Crosetto told the ANSA news agency. He also said that Trump’s claims were not true, saying that “we also made ourselves available for a mission to protect shipping.” “This was greatly appreciated by the American military,” he added. Crosetto continued, “The incredible thing is, they’ve used the Strait of Hormuz, while we haven’t.” Italy hosts seven US military bases with about 13,000 troops, which also provide key capabilities such as air defence systems, assets that could take Italy years, even up to a decade, to replace independently. This comes as Trump continues to criticise NATO allies for not helping the US in opening the Strait of Hormuz amid the Iran war. Earlier on Thursday (Apr 30), while talking to the reporters, Trump was asked whether he would consider pulling US troops out of Italy and Spain. In response, the US president said, Probably … look, why shouldn’t I? Italy has not been of any help to us and Spain has been horrible, absolutely horrible.” He further added that the US has been helping them with Ukraine, when Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine is primarily a NATO concern. US-Italy tensions The relations between Rome and Washington came under strain after Italy’s far-right Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni slammed Trump’s attack on Pope Leo, who had condemned the war on Iran. Trump responded by accusing Meloni of lacking courage for refusing to join the conflict. In a follow-up post on his Truth Social account, he shared a The Guardian report on the Sigonella dispute, writing: “Italy wasn’t there for us, we won’t be there for them! Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Italy's Minister of Defence Guido Crosetto rejected US President Donald Trump’s claims, saying Italy supports US efforts in the Strait of Hormuz and has offered naval help.

‘Don’t understand’: Italy’s defence minister responds as Trump threatens to pull US troops from Europe

India and Italy have recently established a Military Cooperation Plan set for 2026-27, signifying a strategic advancement in their defense relationship. The accord emphasises enhanced military engagements and paves the way for increased defense industrial collaboration. Key components involve structured exchanges and joint training initiatives, indicating a robust commitment to deepening military ties between New Delhi and Rome.


Rajnath Singh Asks Crosetto Not to Share Defence Tech With Pak 

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia ‌Meloni flew to Saudi Arabia on Friday for a previously unannounced trip that will also include meetings in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, a government official said.
Meloni travelled to Jeddah for the first visit by a ​European Union leader to Saudi Arabia since the outbreak of the U.S.-Israeli war against Iran ​in February and was due to meet Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman later ⁠in the day, the official said.

Energy Security Drives Italian PM Meloni's Two-day Gulf Visit

Severe storms have battered parts of Italy, with central and southern regions facing heavy rainfall, strong winds, and localized flooding. Authorities issued weather alerts as emergency teams responded to disruptions affecting transport, infrastructure, and daily life in several cities.


Italy Storms: Severe Weather Hits Central, Southern Italy 

Authorities in Italy have arrested a 17-year-old student accused of planning a deadly school attack inspired by the Columbine High School massacre. Investigators say the teenager, now held in a youth facility in Perugia, allegedly acted on extremist motives linked to racial and religious hatred. Officials say swift action likely prevented a tragedy.


The Plot & Ideology Behind a School Massacre Almost Happened in Italy

Italy is planning to postpone the shutdown of its coal-fired power plants as the global energy crisis deepens. The move comes as governments across Europe reassess energy security amid rising geopolitical tensions. Lawmakers approved a proposal to delay the closure of the country’s remaining coal plants, pushing the deadline far beyond the original plan to phase out coal by 2025.


Italy To Postpone Coal-Plants' Shutdown To 2028

Italy refused authorisation for some US aircraft headed to the Middle East on a combat mission to land at its Sigonella base, a defence ministry source and Italian media said Tuesday.
Under the terms of agreements with the United States, some Italian bases can be used by US military aircraft, but only for logistical purposes. The decision came against a backdrop of tensions between Washington and some of its European allies over the war in Iran.
On Monday, Spain said it had closed its airspace to U.S. planes involved in attacks on Iran, a step beyond its previous refusal ​to allow the use of ​jointly operated military bases.

Italy Has Reportedly Disallowed Some US Aircraft  From Using Its Base in Sicily

Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is pushing for electoral reforms aimed at reviving her political fortunes. The proposed changes could reshape parliamentary dynamics and influence upcoming elections, impacting Italy’s domestic and European policy. In this video, we analyze the proposed reforms, their political implications, and what they mean for Italian voters and the future of the government.

Italy’s PM Giorgia Meloni Seeks To Revive Her Political Fortunes With New Electoral Reforms 

Italian voters have rejected a constitutional judicial reform proposed by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, handing her government a significant political setback ahead of the 2027 general election. The national referendum, held March 22–23, saw a majority vote “No” to changes that would have altered how judges and prosecutors are selected and governed.


Italy Rejects Meloni's Judicial Reform Referendum; Major Political Setback Ahead of 2027 Election

Top Italian officials, including the Tourism Minister, have resigned following Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s defeat in a major referendum. Political fallout continues as parties grapple with shifting public sentiment and leadership challenges.

 Italy: Top Officials & Tourism Minister Resign After Meloni Loses Referendum

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni faced a significant political defeat as voters rejected her judicial reform in the 2026 referendum, with about 53–54% voting No. Meloni expressed regret over a “missed opportunity to modernise Italy.” The result highlights public resistance to her reform agenda ahead of future elections.

Giorgia Meloni Loses Judicial Referendum; Regrets Missed Chance to Modernise Italy

An avalanche in high alpine terrain in Italy ‘s South Tyrol on Saturday killed two skiers, according to the country’s mountain rescue service.

The avalanche happened at an altitude of around 2,400 meters (7,874 feet) on the slopes of the 2,669-meter (8,757-foot) Hohe Ferse (also known as Monte Tallone Grande) near the town of Ratschings, close to the border with Austria.

Italy Avalanche Traps 25 Skiers, Killing Two Near the Austria Border

France and Italy have reportedly opened diplomatic channels with Iran to discuss the safety of commercial ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, according to media reports.

The talks aim to secure guarantees for European vessels navigating the strategic waterway, a critical global oil chokepoint disrupted by the ongoing Iran war.

Shipping traffic through the strait has slowed sharply since US-Israeli strikes on Iran triggered retaliatory threats and attacks, pushing oil prices higher and raising fears of a global energy crisis.

However, Italian officials have denied negotiating a special deal with Tehran, saying diplomatic contacts are focused on broader de-escalation rather than arrangements for specific ships.


US-Iran War | Reports: France, Italy Seek Deal With Iran For Safety of Ships

A powerful 6.1 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Italy, according to seismic monitoring agencies. The tremor was felt in several coastal areas, prompting authorities to monitor the situation closely.

Italy: 6.1 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Off the Coast of Italy | WION Breaking

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