Italy Describes Islamic Republic's Attack as a 'Major Mistake' for Tehran and 'Positive' for Israel

On Monday, April 15, Italy's Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani stated that Italy welcomes new sanctions against those involved in the Iranian government's attack on Israel. Tajani, whose country holds the rotating presidency of the G7, mentioned that new sanctions require the support of all G7 members, including Italy, France, Germany, Canada, Japan, the UK, and the United States. He also noted that new sanctions against Israel's enemies should focus on individuals rather than countries. Tajani told Reuters, 'If we need more sanctions against those who openly act against Israel, for example, supporting terrorism or Hamas, then we can impose these sanctions. But we need to take serious steps and work together.' Tajani characterized the Iranian government's attack as a 'major mistake' for Tehran but assessed it as 'positive' for Israel, as he claimed that Israel, with the help of the US, UK, France, and Jordan, demonstrated its air defense effectiveness by shooting down most of the drones and missiles launched. According to Reuters, the attack involved over 300 missiles and drones, primarily launched from inside Iran, causing minimal damage as most were intercepted by Israel's Iron Dome defense system with assistance from the US, UK, France, and Jordan. The G7 condemned the attack on Sunday and urged Tehran to show restraint. The G7 leaders condemned the 'unprecedented attacks' by the Islamic Republic against Israel during a meeting on Sunday. The White House's account on 'X' announced that G7 leaders 'condemned Iran's unprecedented attacks against Israel and emphasized the G7's commitment to Israel's security.' In their joint statement, G7 leaders warned that the Islamic Republic's actions could lead to uncontrollable escalation of tensions. They reiterated their ongoing efforts to create stability and prevent further escalation, calling for an end to the Islamic Republic's attacks and those of its proxy groups. Charles Michel, President of the European Council, also condemned Iran's unprecedented attack on Israel in a post on 'X' along with a picture from the G7 leaders' meeting. Tajani emphasized the protection of Italian soldiers working in the UN-monitored area and added that the Iranian-backed Houthis in Yemen must stop attacks on ships in the Red Sea, which are vital for global trade. Tajani expressed his opposition to any Israeli attack on the city of Rafah in southern Gaza and called for a ceasefire. He also urged Hamas to release all hostages taken during the October 6 attack. The Italian Foreign Minister stated, 'We all want to protect Israel, but at the same time, we want to achieve stability and peace.'