Domestic Policy
Justice Referendum: The Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, spoke in Milan at the Parenti Theatre during a Fratelli d’Italia event supporting the referendum on justice reform promoted by Minister Carlo Nordio. In her speech, she called on voters to participate: «There are moments when a Nation must know how to look in the mirror… it takes five minutes to put a cross on the Yes». Responding to those proposing a No vote as a political signal, she clarified: «There is no possibility whatsoever that I will resign under any circumstances; I intend to serve the full legislative term». Defending the proposal, she stated that «we do not want to get rid of magistrates but to free magistrates from politics».
Government and Opposition: Prime Minister Meloni attempted to reopen dialogue with the opposition regarding the crisis in the Middle East, following the parliamentary clash of previous days. In a statement, she reiterated that «my call was for sincere and public dialogue», confirming that the invitation to engage remains valid. Meloni then telephoned opposition leaders, including Elly Schlein and Giuseppe Conte, proposing regular updates on the international situation. Reactions remain varied: cautious openness from the Democratic Party, willingness from Carlo Calenda, while the Five Star Movement continues to rule out «fake appearances at Palazzo Chigi».
Foreign Policy
Middle East Crisis: Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, released his first political message following the death of his father, Ali Khamenei, without appearing publicly or making his voice heard. In the text, Khamenei promised to continue the conflict with Washington and swore «revenge» for civilian victims, also confirming the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. At the same time, he extended an olive branch to Gulf countries, declaring a desire for friendly relations provided they «immediately» close US bases used for attacks against the Islamic Republic. Meanwhile, the conflict is expanding on the naval front, with attacks on tankers and ships in the Gulf, while the United States, led by President Trump, continues military operations. The crisis is also reflected in Lebanon, where Israel is preparing a possible expansion of operations against Hezbollah.
USA: The conflict between the United States and Iran continues to have strong geopolitical and economic repercussions. President Trump, commenting on the rise in crude oil prices, observed: «The United States is by far the largest oil producer in the world, so when crude oil prices rise, we make a lot of money», but he reiterated that the priority remains stopping Tehran: «of much greater interest and importance to me, as President, is stopping a wicked empire, Iran, from acquiring nuclear weapons». Meanwhile, the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz is pushing oil prices beyond $100 per barrel and fueling fears of a severe global energy crisis. In the United States, alerts are also rising over possible retaliations following an attack on a synagogue near Detroit.
Economy and Finance
Former Ilva: The battle for the future of Ilva has reopened with a new expression of interest from the Indian group Jindal Steel & Power, while the US-based Flacks Group remains the most advanced candidate with an investment plan of up to €5 billion and an initial workforce of 6,500 employees. The Minister for Enterprises and Made in Italy, Adolfo Urso, clarified that the proposals are «alternative and competitive» and that the State will use the golden power mechanism to protect investments, the environment, and employment.
Economic Scenarios: In 2025, approximately 17,000 shops disappeared in Italy, with an average of 46 closures per day, confirming the phenomenon of «commercial desertification» highlighted by Confcommercio. The decline mainly affects small businesses such as grocery stores, newsstands, and bookshops, while accommodation facilities like B&Bs are growing, and e-commerce continues to expand. At the same time, according to Istat data, the labour market shows overall positive signals, with 185,000 more people employed and an employment rate rising to 62.5%. However, significant generational, territorial, and gender imbalances persist, with greater difficulties for young people, women, and residents in the South in accessing employment.