In remarks signaling heightened concern about security risks and emulation of violent acts, the Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni spoke on Tuesday about the growing reach of criminal actions such as those carried out by Hamas. Speaking during a meeting held at a Roman synagogue, Meloni acknowledged the real threat while underscoring Italy’s commitment to safeguarding public safety and preserving social cohesion. Although there are currently no concrete indications of an imminent attack, the country remains vigilant due to its history of terrorism and political violence that has touched Italian soil in the past.
Meloni stressed the need to intensify protection for Jewish citizens living in Italy, stating that the government will defend its Jewish communities against any form of antisemitism or aggression. Her goal was to reassure the Jewish community in Rome and the broader Italian population that unity and proactive measures would guide policy responses in this fragile security environment. She emphasized solidarity and the responsibility of the state to shield citizens from hate crimes and targeted violence, citing the importance of collective vigilance in protecting civil freedoms.
The prime minister made an unannounced visit to a major Hebrew temple to demonstrate solidarity and to send a clear message about Italy’s support for Jewish community life. It was a gesture of reassurance to residents of Rome and across Italy, reflecting the government’s stance against antisemitism and its commitment to maintaining harmony among diverse communities. Meloni noted that hatred can manifest in many forms, including state-sanctioned or neighborly intimidation, and she called for reinforced protections for Jewish religious life and institutions within Italy’s borders.
Attack on airport
As seen in other European nations, Italian authorities have strengthened security in key urban centers since the weekend. The focus areas include sensitive sites such as Israeli diplomatic missions, religious districts, cultural centers, and major transportation hubs. In Rome, Milan, and Naples, enhanced screening and vigilance have become routine at places that could be attractive targets for attacks or symbolic strikes. Security checks around airports and travel corridors have intensified, with particular attention to routes serving Israel and other sites linked to ongoing regional tensions.
Historical memory plays a role in policy decisions as well. The most recent incident in Italy tied to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict that stands out in public records is the 1985 attack at a major international airport. On December 27, 1985, a command-dominated assault targeted Rome’s Fiumicino airport. The assailants, linked to a Palestinian group and led by figures associated with Abu Nidal, employed grenades and automatic rifles in a plan that reportedly sought to hijack a flight and redirect it toward Israel. The attack resulted in the deaths of 16 people and left about 80 injured, fueling a long arc of security reforms and counterterrorism strategies in Italy. Such events anchor contemporary discussions about balancing civil liberties with robust public safety measures, and they inform ongoing training, interagency collaboration, and international cooperation in counterterrorism efforts. The incident is frequently cited in analyses of European security dynamics and the enduring impact of past violence on present-day policy decisions, as scholars and practitioners alike examine how a single event can reshape national preparedness and public trust. This historical context helps explain why government leaders repeatedly emphasize continuous vigilance and resilience in the face of evolving threats, while also aiming to preserve the open, inclusive character of Italian society. Source: archival records and post-event analyses from Italian security authorities.