Domestic Policy
Strait Bridge: The Court of Auditors has decided not to register the Cipess resolution allocating €13.5 billion to the Strait Bridge, accepting the reservations of magistrate Carmela Mirabella. The accounting judges raised doubts regarding financial coverage, traffic estimates, environmental compliance, and the competence of Cipess, which is considered a political body. The motivations will be disclosed within 30 days. The government defends the project’s legitimacy: “This is the judicial caste witnessing the collapse of its power and empire. These are its last, desperate incursions onto the field,” said Infrastructure Minister Matteo Salvini in an interview with Il Corriere della Sera.
Justice: The Senate is preparing to definitively approve the constitutional reform on separating the careers of judges and prosecutors, which will subsequently be submitted to a referendum between March and April. Debate remains heated between those fearing a weakening of judicial autonomy and those, like the government, who argue the reform strengthens justice. Meanwhile, political forces are preparing for a vote of significant political weight, also intended to measure public support for the executive.
Foreign Policy
Middle East Conflict: The Gaza truce lasted less than eight hours: according to the Gaza Strip’s Ministry of Health, Israeli airstrikes overnight caused 104 deaths, including 46 children and 20 women. Israel reported striking a weapons site in Beit Lahia, while mutual accusations of ceasefire violations continue. Tensions are also rising within Netanyahu’s government, as the international community calls for adherence to the truce and protection of civilians.
Netherlands: According to exit polls, the progressive liberal party D66, led by Rob Jetten, achieved a historic victory in the Dutch elections, surpassing Geert Wilders’ far-right party. The vote marks a shift toward pro-European and moderate positions, with 38-year-old Jetten likely to become the next prime minister. Alliances for government formation remain to be defined, with potential agreements both on the centre-right and toward the left.
Economy and Finance
Budget: Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti reiterated that any amendments to the budget will be decided by Parliament, not the government, while confirming the solidity of the agreement reached. Central to the debate remain the banks’ contribution, taxation on short-term rentals, and the possible extension of the tax amnesty. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni defends measures supporting businesses and growth, as the Senate begins its Budget session.
Monetary Policy: The Federal Reserve cut interest rates by a quarter point, bringing them to a range of 3.75% to 4%—its second consecutive reduction and the first time below 4% since 2022. The decision comes amid a full government shutdown in the United States, while the European Central Bank, meeting in Florence, is expected to keep rates unchanged. Christine Lagarde warned of the sluggishness of European governance, urging the EU to reform—not through revolution, but with greater effectiveness and shared vision.