Trump Criticizes Italian PM Meloni After Pope Dispute

Middle Eastern coverage focuses on how Meloni’s decisions over Israel and Iran affect Italy’s standing in the region. Commentators say suspending the defence pact with Israel and resisting Trump’s pressure has boosted Rome’s image as more independent, while Iran uses satire to mock both Trump and Italy. Many expect regional governments to watch whether Italy follows up with concrete changes in arms sales and diplomatic positions.

• •Middle Eastern outlets report that Meloni’s suspension of the defence agreement with Israel is seen as a rare European rebuke to Israeli policy.
• •Commentary argues that Trump’s attacks have unintentionally helped Meloni appear more autonomous from Washington in Arab public opinion.
• •Reports highlight Iran’s satirical ‘alliance’ pitch to Italy as an attempt to exploit Western divisions for propaganda.
• •Writers in the region say Italy’s choices on the Iran war will influence how seriously it is taken as a mediator.
• •Some Middle Eastern commentary expects closer Italian coordination with other EU states on Gaza and Iran after the Trump clash.