Domestic Policy
Justice: President of the Republic Sergio Mattarella addressed the plenary session of the Superior Council of the Judiciary following remarks by Justice Minister Carlo Nordio, who had described the body as a “para-mafia system.” An unprecedented move aimed at reaffirming the constitutional role of the CSM and calling on all institutions to respect one another. While acknowledging shortcomings in the Council’s operations, the Head of State distinguished between legitimate political criticism and institutional delegitimization. Mattarella’s intervention seeks to contain the escalation of confrontation surrounding the referendum campaign.
Autonomy: The Council of Ministers approved draft pre-agreements on differentiated autonomy with Lombardy, Piedmont, Veneto, and Liguria, launching negotiations to transfer additional competencies to the Regions. Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini and Minister Roberto Calderoli described this as a historic step, highlighting potential benefits in terms of efficiency and expenditure management, including in the healthcare sector.
Foreign Policy
Board of Peace: The “Board of Peace,” initiated by Donald Trump to manage the Gaza crisis, debuted in Washington, announcing over $5 billion in aid and reconstruction funding—but with limited participation and numerous withdrawals among European allies and the Vatican. For Italy, represented by Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani in an observer capacity, the goal remains supporting every concrete effort toward stabilization and reconstruction within the framework of international law.
Iran: The Wall Street Journal reports that Iran is preparing for a potential conflict with the United States after diplomatic talks were deemed insufficient to resolve differences over nuclear issues, missiles, and Tehran’s regional role. The Trump administration has reportedly intensified its military presence in the region, while Tehran has issued statements hinting at armed retaliation in case of attack. According to reports, both sides are reinforcing their respective military capabilities amid escalating tensions.
Economy and Finance
Energy Decree: The government approved the Energy Decree, mobilizing over €5 billion to mitigate the impact of utility bills on households and businesses, with enhanced support for the most vulnerable households and reduced burdens for the productive sector. The measure also includes a temporary increase in the Irap tax for energy companies and provisions to promote long-term contracts in renewables via GSE. “This was a long and delicate process of refinement and dialogue with all stakeholders in the energy sector to reach a measure through which we aim to ensure, as Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni reiterated, concrete support for families and businesses,” said Environment and Energy Security Minister Gilberto Pichetto Fratin, speaking to Il Sole 24Ore.
ECB: According to the Financial Times, Christine Lagarde is considering stepping down early from her role as President of the European Central Bank before her term ends in 2027, to allow current French President Emmanuel Macron to influence the selection of her successor and avoid political tensions linked to upcoming French elections. However, official denials have been issued from Frankfurt.