Domestic Policy
Justice: Justice Minister Carlo Nordio, speaking at the Justice Fair, dismissed accusations of “assault on the Constitution” related to the reform on the separation of judicial careers, calling them “a solemn nonsense.” He urged maintaining a calm and legal debate, emphasizing that the Constitution itself provides for its own amendment. Nordio reiterated the need for a neutral, non-politicized judiciary and criticized the formation of committees opposing the reform. He also announced an upcoming intervention to reorganize the issue of wiretapping, calling it “a disgrace” and a future priority for the ministry. Finally, he expressed solidarity with Sigfrido Ranucci following the attack on Report, recalling that press freedom is “always sovereign.”
Crosetto: Defense Minister Guido Crosetto, in an interview featured in Bruno Vespa’s new book Finimondo, denounced the existence of a purported network of Italian influencers, academics, and entrepreneurs allegedly working for Moscow, engaged in a “hybrid and cognitive war” to destabilize the country. His remarks sparked heated political debate, with calls for clarifications and a parliamentary briefing. Crosetto later clarified that he intended to draw attention to the risks of disinformation and foreign infiltration.
Foreign Policy
Middle East Conflict: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered a new offensive on Gaza, breaking the ceasefire in effect since October 10, following a purported Hamas deception regarding the recovery of an Israeli hostage’s body. The military conducted raids on Rafah and Gaza City, resulting in at least two fatalities. The decision followed a security summit evaluating various military options, including expanding the so-called “yellow line.” Meanwhile, from Washington, U.S. Vice President Vance sought to de-escalate tensions: “The ceasefire is holding. I believe peace in the Middle East will endure.”
Orbán-Salvini: Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini met with Hungarian leader Viktor Orbán at the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport to discuss infrastructure, geopolitical balances, and European policies, reaffirming their shared opposition to the Green Deal and irregular immigration. The two leaders visited the model of the Strait Bridge, a project attracting international interest. The meeting confirms the established political rapport between Salvini and Orbán, who have previously co-led numerous European summits and joint initiatives.
Economy and Finance
Savings Day: On Savings Day, Bank of Italy Governor Fabio Panetta urged credit institutions to deploy available resources to support the real economy and promote lending to businesses, particularly those with growth potential. Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti emphasized the importance of maintaining a balance between public guarantees and creditworthiness, ensuring the state remains a driver of development without replacing the market. ABI President Antonio Patuelli, meanwhile, called for a “tax system friendly to savings,” capable of protecting families and investors.
Workplace Safety: The Council of Ministers approved a new decree on workplace safety, valued at 900 million euros annually, introducing scholarships of up to 7,000 euros for orphans of workplace accident victims. The measure also provides for the adoption of a digital construction site badge, incentives for exemplary companies, and strengthening the staffing of the Labour Inspectorate and Carabinieri. Labour Minister Marina Calderone stressed the importance of reinforcing inspections and promoting training, with particular attention to young workers.