Elly Schlein, leader of the Democratic Party (PD), has intensified criticism against Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni regarding the release of Almasri, a Libyan commander accused of torture. Schlein demands accountability from Meloni for allowing Almasri to return to Libya, where he could continue his alleged crimes. “Is Italy siding with the victims or the torturers?” Schlein questioned, accusing Meloni of turning the matter into a political decision rather than a legal one.
The Justice Minister, Carlo Nordio, argued that the release was based on procedural errors in the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) warrant. However, Schlein countered that Italian law grants no discretionary power to the justice minister in such cases. “Who ordered Nordio to stop the extradition process? Was it Meloni herself?” she asked, demanding further clarification.
Growing Tension Between Judiciary and Government
The Almasri case has heightened tensions between the Italian government and the judiciary. Schlein condemned what she described as a “violent attack on magistrates” by right-wing politicians, accusing them of attempting to discredit judges simply for following legal procedures. She believes the government is using the controversy as a distraction from its political missteps.
Schlein also criticised Italy’s failure to support the ICC’s stance against US sanctions on the court, describing it as a “shameful betrayal of Italy’s history” in promoting international justice. She warned that Meloni’s policies are aligning Italy with Donald Trump’s nationalist agenda, which she said prioritises immunity for the rich and powerful over the rule of law.
Palestinian Conflict: Criticism of Trump’s Relocation Proposal
Regarding Middle Eastern policy, Schlein strongly condemned the Trump administration’s suggestion to relocate Palestinians from Gaza to other countries. She labelled the idea as “ethnic cleansing”, stating that it undermines Palestinian sovereignty. Schlein also criticised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for promoting similar plans. “Gaza belongs to the Palestinians,” she said, advocating for Italy to recognise Palestine’s statehood as Spain and other European nations have done.
Schlein reaffirmed Italy’s traditional support for the two-state solution, warning that Trump’s policies could undermine long-standing diplomatic efforts. “The idea of turning Gaza into a playground for Western elites is an insult to international law and human dignity,” she added.
Economic Woes: Meloni Accused of Neglecting Key Issues
Schlein shifted her focus to domestic issues, accusing the Fratelli d’Italia (FdI) government of ignoring Italy’s worsening economic problems. She highlighted a 22-month decline in industrial production, low wages, and increasing energy bills for households and businesses. “The government distracts the public by creating new enemies every day, but the real enemy is its own inaction,” she said.
The opposition leader also took aim at Transport Minister Matteo Salvini, calling him “the worst transport minister in Italy’s history” due to delays in addressing failing transport infrastructure. Commuters face regular delays, she said, which impacts their productivity and quality of life.
Minimum Wage and Public Health Proposals
Schlein highlighted the Democratic Party’s alternative policies, noting that they had proposed €5 billion in additional funding for public healthcare and pushed for the implementation of a national minimum wage. “Our proposals aren’t just critiques—we offer solutions. But the right-wing government buries them,” she said. Schlein accused the government of blocking progress on minimum wage legislation, despite strong public support.
She added that her party had presented amendments in collaboration with other opposition groups to address manufacturing policies and labour reforms, but they were dismissed by the government. “The arrogance of this government prevents meaningful dialogue,” Schlein remarked.
Balancing Support for Ukraine with Calls for Peace
When asked about Italy’s stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Schlein emphasised a balanced approach. She reaffirmed Italy’s support for Ukraine’s sovereignty while urging for European-led peace negotiations. “We risk leaving room for false peace brokers like Trump if Europe does not take the lead,” she warned.
Schlein concluded by defending her leadership within the PD, arguing that the party must remain unified to defeat the most right-wing government in Italy’s modern history. “This is not the time for Plan B strategies. What Italians need is a clear, collective vision to address economic, social, and geopolitical challenges.”
