Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani stated that Italy will not recognize the State of Palestine unless it also formally recognizes the State of Israel. His remarks came in response to France’s announcement of its decision to recognize Palestinian statehood.
“Italy supports a two-state solution,” Tajani said, addressing a Forza Italia party meeting. “However, recognition must be reciprocal—Palestine must recognize Israel as well.”
Tajani reaffirmed Italy’s call for an immediate ceasefire in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, condemning both the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and restrictions on aid access. “We can no longer accept carnage and famine,” he said, while emphasizing that Italy remains committed to peace rather than taking sides.
The statement sparked criticism from opposition leaders. Giuseppe Provenzano, foreign affairs chief of the centre-left Democratic Party, challenged Tajani’s assertion, pointing out that Palestine had already recognized Israel through the 1993 Oslo Accords. He argued that the lack of progress stems from Israel’s refusal to recognize Palestinian statehood and accused the current Israeli leadership of undermining peace efforts.
Provenzano criticized Tajani’s stance as historically inaccurate and politically deferential, stating, “Waiting for mutual recognition gives veto power to those obstructing peace.”