Interview with Antonio Tajani: “An agreement in Gaza is possible, but Hamas must go” (Il Messaggero)

Antonio Tajani, Minister of Foreign Affairs, stated that Hamas would have shown openness to the US plan to end the war in Gaza, which also foresees the immediate release of all Israeli hostages. What scenario do you foresee?
"The scenario must be to reach a ceasefire to put an end to the slaughter of a people caught between a war initiated by Hamas and Israel's disproportionate response. As Italy, we support the possibility of reaching an agreement. After that, an interim phase must be established, with a different administration and without Hamas. We will see in what form. We are ready to contribute to the creation of a temporary administration that can lead to the establishment of a Palestinian State".

Prime Minister Meloni recently met with Tony Blair, who is working on a plan for the day after in Gaza with the endorsement of Donald Trump. Could it work?
"It would be a proposal we could view favourably, provided there is a general agreement, including from Arab countries. Moreover, when he was UK Prime Minister, Blair had close relations with Berlusconi. He is a person who could play an important role. These meetings have discussed the plan, but we will see how it develops. We support any mediation initiative. The American proposal is welcome if accepted by Arab countries, and if it includes the exclusion of Hamas, the immediate release of hostages, and a path towards the establishment of a Palestinian State. From what I have heard, Arab countries have expressed a positive opinion. We are working to make it happen".

Turning to Ukraine. Some have described Donald Trump's words of support for Zelensky as "late"…
"Trump has hardened his position, given that Putin was not responding positively to an agreement with Ukraine to end the war. This prompted a firmer reaction from the US President. It is never too late to achieve peace".

What impression did you have from the call with the Italian spokesperson of the Global Sumud Flotilla?
"I stated my position: we advised against proceeding. The spokesperson listened and understood our concerns. I reiterated that my phone is always open. The line to follow is the one indicated by President Mattarella, especially knowing that moving towards a naval blockade would be dangerous. In that case, we could do nothing more than provide consular assistance to Italians present".

Does Piantedosi fear repercussions in the streets in case of new critical situations?
"We must prevent all negative outcomes. The opposition responded positively to President Mattarella's appeal; the Church showed its willingness, and I recall the Italian government's work to convince Israel to accept this proposal".

Minister Salvini has spoken about introducing a bond for organisers of public protests. What is your view?
"We will discuss it. It is a proposal, although criminal responsibility is individual. I would like Italy to be free of 'bad teachers' who give instructions and make violent statements that others may misinterpret. One can attack a political force, but cannot publicly vilify a person, as happened, for example, with Minister Bernini. I believe that all public figures should conduct themselves in a way that cannot be misinterpreted, because if a person is well-known, they can influence others. Even when I make political criticisms, I never personalise them".

Some controversy arose over the video showing you dancing at the Forza Italia party in Telese to the music of Lucio Battisti. Many considered it inappropriate given the situation and your role as Minister.
"I did not attend a private party, but my party's event, where foreign policy is discussed even today. Mogol's concert was scheduled, and Lucio Battisti is part of our value pantheon. The Minister is a normal person: eats, drinks, sleeps. I have never abandoned my ministerial role, but I am a party secretary and have a duty to be among my people and do what they do".

Were you upset by this criticism?
"No, these are attacks from those who evidently fear the growing presence of Forza Italia. I would do everything I did again".

Do you have any expectations for this electoral round? A panel yesterday mentioned a "20 per cent target." Isn't that ambitious?
"In Calabria - where there are three lists - we will reach it and exceed it significantly. It may not be 20% in the regional elections, but all published polls show us growing, even in Tuscany. This means that Forza Italia's ideas and values will always count".

Speaking of values, today you are presenting the new Forza Italia manifesto, which includes a strong emphasis on liberal values, such as civil rights. Do you hope to attract moderate voters from the left?
"There is a space left vacant on our side. The left is now just the left, no longer the centre. Just look at Fico's choice in Campania. I believe there is an electorate of former Christian Democrats and former Socialists who have more in common with us than with others. To these voters we say: we are here. We are different both from the League and from Fratelli d'Italia".

Does the Berlusconi family appreciate the orientation of the new manifesto?
"I think so; I sent it to them. The Berlusconi family has always been presented as something opposed to the party, but that is not the case: we have excellent relations and I listen to their advice, as well as that of friends. The bond between Forza Italia and Berlusconi is indissoluble".

How will the campaign for the justice referendum be conducted?
"It will be based on examples, but also on the attempt to make people understand what it truly represents: more guarantees and more freedom".