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Veto Initiative – General Assembly’s debate on the situation in the Middle East – 16th April 2026 Statement of the Permanent Representative of Italy, Amb. Giorgio Marrapodi

VETO HORMUZ

New York 16 April, 2026

 

Your Excellency, Mr. President,

Italy aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union and wishes to add some remarks on its national capacity.

Italy thanks Pakistan and other regional partners for their efforts to facilitate talks on the situation in the Gulf Region. There is no alternative to dialogue. We always said that diplomacy is the only way.

We hope new talks will take place soon towards a substantive negotiated settlement and that the ceasefire is respected, including in Lebanon.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Tajani visited Beirut on Monday to express solidarity and support to President Aoun and Lebanese institutions at this critical time. We must avoid other civilian casualties and encourage dialogue. In this regard we welcome the announcement a few minutes ago of a ceasefire in Lebanon and hope that all parties will uphold it.

Italy is very worried for the situation in the Strait of Hormuz. What happened has serious consequences for global economy and for food security in the most fragile countries.

When the environment will be conducive, we are in favor of appropriate efforts to contribute to ensuring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

Italy is also very concerned for the impact on relations between Iran and the other Gulf countries. It is crucial to rebuild trust.

Italy is always ready to do its part for peace and stability. To this end, we are in close contact with all the partners involved.

Thank you.