Top news stories from Italy this week.
Italy’s main news headlines from 16-30 January 2026.
Sicily Landslide and Political Clash Over Funds. A massive landslide is threatening the town of Niscemi, in Sicily, where unstable ground has already destroyed roads, damaged buildings and forced more than 1,500 residents from their homes. The landslide now encircles the town for over four kilometres, with experts warning that further movement could make hundreds of homes permanently uninhabitable. Authorities are monitoring the area from the air as emergency measures continue.
The disaster has reignited a political clash over funding priorities. Opposition parties, Sicily’s regional assembly and local leaders are calling for money earmarked for the Strait of Messina Bridge, estimated at over €5 billion, to be redirected towards reconstruction and prevention in Niscemi and other areas hit by Cyclone Harry. The government has rejected the proposal, with Matteo Salvini insisting the funds are tied to strategic infrastructure, while promising separate emergency resources. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni visited Niscemi, announcing an initial €100 million allocation, as prosecutors in Gela investigate possible criminal responsibility linked to the disaster.
Milan–Cortina Olympics: Security, Protests and Diplomatic Tensions. Security preparations for the Milan–Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics are intensifying amid protests and political controversy. Demonstrations in Milan are expected to escalate in early February, driven by anarchist, pro-Palestinian, environmentalist and anti-police groups, as well as opposition to the presence of US ICE agents. Italian authorities have tightened security, deploying 6,000 officers, establishing red zones, five no-fly areas, drone surveillance and a dedicated cyber-security control room.
The government has stressed that Italy will retain full control over public order, clarifying that ICE agents will provide intelligence support only for US delegations and will not operate independently on Italian streets. Milan mayor Beppe Sala has openly opposed their presence, while opposition parties accuse the government of compromising sovereignty. Olympic organisers insist the Games will be secure and inclusive, with Milano-Cortina executive Diana Bianchedi highlighting strong public enthusiasm, record volunteer numbers and the long-term legacy in infrastructure and sport.
Defence and Armed Forces Reform. Defence Minister Guido Crosetto has announced an urgent reform of Italy’s armed forces, with a bill expected before the Cabinet by March. The plan includes creating a 10,000-strong volunteer reserve, increasing military personnel to 160,000 by 2033, and establishing a unified cyber-security command to address hybrid threats and daily foreign cyberattacks. Italy is also pushing for deeper European defence cooperation, including a shared battle tank project and expanded satellite production, while strengthening technology partnerships with the UK and Japan on next-generation fighter jets.
Vannacci and the Growing Crisis Inside the Lega. Internal tensions within the Lega have escalated sharply after MEP Roberto Vannacci registered the symbol of his new movement, Futuro Nazionale, effectively launching an ultra-sovereigntist party. Senior figures, particularly northern governors such as Luca Zaia, are pushing for his expulsion, warning that his project threatens the entire Italian right by siphoning voters from both the Lega and Brothers of Italy.
Salvini has so far resisted expelling Vannacci, seeking to contain the crisis, even as compromise proposals—such as incorporating Vannacci’s logo into the party symbol—have sparked backlash. Political commentators warn that Vannacci’s move could open space for a radical, anti-EU, pro-Russia flank outside the governing coalition.
EU and International Relations. EU Parliament President Roberta Metsola, visiting Rome, praised Giorgia Meloni’s strategy of keeping communication channels open with both EU institutions and US President Donald Trump. Metsola also met Pope Leo XIV to discuss peace through dialogue and addressed Italy’s parliamentary leaders.
President Sergio Mattarella, returning from a state visit to the UAE, spoke positively about Emirati openness to Italian business and interfaith dialogue, viewing Italy’s push for structured EU-UAE cooperation as a political success amid rising Middle East tensions.
Justice Reform and Referendum Battles. The administrative court has upheld the government’s decision to hold the justice reform referendum on 22–23 March, rejecting an appeal by its promoters. While the governing majority welcomed the ruling, critics continue to warn that separating magistrates’ careers could weaken judicial independence and the fight against organised crime, particularly in public procurement and financial crimes.
Tensions have also flared after Justice Minister Carlo Nordio condemned a social media post by a magistrates’ union leader linking a US police killing to Italy’s reform, prompting calls for disciplinary action.
Holocaust Remembrance and Antisemitism: On Holocaust Remembrance Day, Giorgia Meloni condemned the Fascist regime’s role in racial persecution and reaffirmed Italy’s rejection of antisemitism. President Mattarella warned that democracy has “no place for the poison of racial hatred” and called for firm European action. Survivors, including Liliana Segre, urged vigilance against the resurgence of hatred while cautioning against instrumentalising current conflicts.
Meanwhile, Parliament is debating a new antisemitism law, with divisions over adopting the IHRA definition, introducing criminal sanctions, and the scope of protections.
Crime, Security and Social Tensions: Two police shootings in Milan have sparked scrutiny of law-enforcement conduct, including the killing of a 28-year-old man carrying a replica weapon during an anti-drug operation. Prosecutors have opened investigations to fully assess claims of self-defence.
Youth violence remains a growing concern, with nearly 24,000 adolescents investigated in 2025 and a sharp rise in weapons-related offences. Experts warn that the government’s focus on repression and detention is undermined by cuts to prevention, education and social programmes.
Migration and Humanitarian Crisis. A migrant boat capsizing between Tunisia and Sicily has left around 50 people missing, with only one survivor rescued. Authorities fear a much larger tragedy linked to Cyclone Harry, as hundreds more migrants may have been lost at sea after smugglers launched boats despite severe weather conditions.
Politics, Media and Society. The Senate has approved tougher sentences for sexual violence, but the removal of the word “consent” has divided opinion, with critics calling it a step backwards for women’s rights. Mediaset has taken legal action against Fabrizio Corona over alleged defamatory content. Polling shows a society marked by distrust, with seven in ten Italians expressing low trust in others, particularly among younger generations—a trend increasingly exploited by populist movements.
Italy’s main news headlines from 16-23 January 2026.
Security and youth crime. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni convened a high level security summit to accelerate a new package of measures after a fatal stabbing in La Spezia. The focus is on youth crime and baby gangs. The Lega is pushing for tougher rules on young foreign offenders, including limits on family reunification, welfare cuts and faster repatriations. Education Minister Giuseppe Valditara called for justice and transparency, launching a school inspection while urging targeted, not alarmist, responses.
Security decree delayed. The government’s new security decree, containing around 65 provisions on knives, youth violence, theft and parental liability, will not be approved at today’s Cabinet meeting as work continues. Proposals such as metal detectors in schools have been set aside. Further delays followed constitutional concerns raised by the Quirinale, with ministers now working on a revised decree and parallel bill.
Political strategy on security. Commentators note that the accelerated security package is also a political move by Meloni and Interior Minister Piantedosi to pre empt Matteo Salvini’s hard line narrative, neutralising the Lega leader’s attempt to regain visibility on law and order.
Data protection authority under fire. Italy’s data protection authority rejected calls to resign despite a prosecutors’ investigation and fresh allegations aired on Report. The board denies wrongdoing, insisting the accusations are media driven. Investigators allege lavish spending, including luxury hotels, business class flights and favours to major companies such as Meta. The opposition is pressing for resignations, while Report host Sigfrido Ranucci accuses the authority of incompetence and political bias.
Nightclub safety crackdown. After the Crans Montana tragedy, authorities intensified inspections nationwide. In Rome, the historic Piper nightclub was sealed due to overcrowding, unauthorised alterations and evacuation risks. Similar closures followed in Milan, Cremona and Crema, where a ceiling fire was triggered by indoor pyrotechnics.
Judicial reform and tensions. CGIL secretary Maurizio Landini attacked Justice Minister Nordio’s reform, accusing it of subordinating magistrates to politics. Nordio strongly denied this, aligning with Sergio Mattarella, who reiterated that judicial independence is inviolable. The clash deepened political polarisation.
Mattarella to trainee magistrates. Addressing 354 trainee magistrates at the Quirinale, Mattarella stressed the delicate nature of their role and the centrality of independence guaranteed by the single competitive exam and the self governing CSM. He warned against external pressures, without mentioning the upcoming justice referendum.
Justice referendum. The referendum drive has passed 500,000 signatures, opening the way to filing with the Court of Cassation. Internal clashes have emerged over the wording of the question and campaign tactics, while tensions grow between pro Yes and pro No fronts. Forza Italia figures, including Marina Berlusconi, are calibrating their involvement.
Antisemitism legislation. The Senate is speeding up work on new measures against antisemitism. Additional bills from the PD and M5S have joined those already filed. The Constitutional Affairs Committee will decide whether to adopt a single base text or set up a drafting committee.
Ukraine and coalition rifts. Tensions are growing within the governing coalition over Ukraine. Several Lega MPs voted against or abstained from a resolution supporting Kyiv. Defence Minister Crosetto insisted the government line is unchanged, declaring he would send more weapons if he could. Commentators describe the Lega split as small but unprecedented, exposing pro Russia ambiguities and weakening coalition unity.
Foreign policy, Japan. Meloni visited Japan for the third time as prime minister, meeting new premier Sanae Takaichi and signing a broad strategic partnership covering technology, defence, space and high value industries. The pact aims to strengthen supply chain security and reaffirm a shared commitment to a rules based global order.
Meloni’s birthday. From Japan, Meloni thanked followers in a video message on her birthday, saying she was travelling from Oman to South Korea and felt their affection.
Consob appointment stalled. The appointment of Federico Freni as Consob president has been delayed after objections from Forza Italia. Tajani insists the post must go to an independent technical figure, exposing growing tensions within the centre right as the legislature enters its final phase.
Valentino Garavani. Fashion designer Valentino Garavani has died in Rome at 93. Born in Voghera in 1932, trained in Milan and Paris, he founded his atelier in via Condotti and rose to global fame after the 1962 Palazzo Pitti show. President Mattarella praised him as a visionary who shaped global fashion, while Meloni called him a timeless symbol of Italian haute couture. Rome paid tribute as ten thousand people attended the camera ardente ahead of the funeral.
Social and economic concerns. Speaking in Turin, Mattarella urged institutions to confront new forms of poverty affecting young people and migrants, from job insecurity to housing shortages. Separately, Bank of Italy governor Fabio Panetta warned that Italy risks long term stagnation without serious investment in education and productivity, a call largely ignored by politics.
Crime and legislation debates. A new rape bill has sparked controversy by replacing the concept of consent with dissenso and lowering basic penalties, prompting accusations that the government is undermining the “only yes is yes” principle.
Other news. A 3.6 magnitude earthquake struck near Militello Rosmarino in Sicily, part of an ongoing seismic swarm. Severe weather battered the South, with cyclone Harry causing hundreds of millions of euros in damage. In Bologna, the regional court annulled the city wide 30 km per hour limit, prompting political reactions but not a policy reversal by the mayor. A feminicide case shocked the country as Federica Torzullo was killed by her husband, now charged accordingly.
Italy’s main news headlines from 12-19 December 2025.
Salvini acquitted in Open Arms case. Italy’s supreme court has acquitted deputy premier Matteo Salvini over the Open Arms case, ruling that the alleged offences did not exist. Prime minister Giorgia Meloni described the verdict as a vindication of border defence, while critics denounced it as politically motivated. The case related to Salvini’s 2019 decision, as interior minister, to block the disembarkation of 147 migrants in Lampedusa.
Justice reform referendum timing dispute. The government is considering holding the constitutional referendum on justice reform on 1 March, despite legal experts warning that procedural rules would push the vote to late March or April at the earliest. Opposition leaders accuse the government of accelerating the timetable to offset falling poll numbers and to exploit recent judicial scandals.
Turin Imam: Release, appeals and political clash. Imam Mohamed Shahin has been released after 21 days in a detention centre, with judges ruling that new evidence shows he poses no current danger. In a separate ruling, the Turin court of appeal halted his expulsion and suspended the rejection of his asylum claim, citing insufficient proof of radicalisation and his level of integration. Interior minister Matteo Piantedosi defended police actions and warned against what he called “ideological conditioning” in court decisions, while Giorgia Meloni and government allies criticised the judiciary. The interior ministry will appeal to the supreme court.
Atreju festival: Meloni in campaign mode. Giorgia Meloni closed Fratelli d’Italia’s Atreju festival with a combative speech attacking the left and accusing Elly Schlein of avoiding debate. She praised coalition unity, reaffirmed plans for institutional and judicial reforms, and projected confidence ahead of the 2027 elections, signalling a permanent campaign atmosphere.
Fratelli d’Italia: Arianna Meloni interview. In an interview, Arianna Meloni said the right-wing Fratelli d’Italia party led by her sister premier Giorgia Meloni “is the party of the nation” and could grow beyond 30 per cent. She reaffirmed support for premiership reform and described FdI as a guarantor of stability. She criticised centre-left opposition Partito Democratico (PD) leader Elly Schlein for skipping Atreju and dismissed accusations of post-fascism as detached from reality.
Forza Italia signals leadership shift. Foreign minister and deputy premier Antonio Tajani announced that Forza Italia will hold a national congress in January 2027, opening the door to competitive leadership bids and marking a break from the party’s traditional structure. Calabria governor Roberto Occhiuto has emerged as a leading figure, backed by members of the Berlusconi family and online grassroots campaigns.
Centre-left strategy and leadership. Former culture minister Dario Franceschini said the country is “at a standstill” and confirmed that the PD alliance with the Movimento 5 Stelle is effectively secured. He credited Elly Schlein with consolidating unity and confirmed she will be the centre-left’s candidate for prime minister, describing 2026 as the year to prepare a clear alternative to the right.
PD national assembly: Unity with frictions. At the PD national assembly, Elly Schlein attacked Giorgia Meloni over rising living costs, the economy and defence spending, accusing the government of lacking a growth strategy. While a broad majority backed Schlein’s leadership, high abstention rates and internal tensions highlighted ongoing difficulties in consolidating the party’s base.
Family living in the woods: court decision pending. Social services reported poor hygiene and social isolation among children living with their parents in a forest home in Palmoli. A court in L’Aquila will soon decide whether the children can return home for Christmas after parents agreed to homeschooling, tutoring and temporary housing improvements. Political figures, including senate speaker Ignazio La Russa, urged a swift decision.
Immigration and public debate. Research by LaPolis–University of Urbino, Demos and Carta di Roma shows immigration accounts for nearly 10 per cent of Italy’s population and is crucial to the economy. The study finds that political and media attention on immigration peaks during election periods, often amplifying fears, though concern has eased recently as other crises have dominated public anxiety.
Ipsos–Ispi survey on global threats. An Ipsos–Ispi survey shows declining trust in the United States among Italians. Russia remains the main perceived global threat at 31 per cent, followed by the US and Israel at 12 per cent each. Economic recession in Europe is the top concern for 2026, while peace in Ukraine is the most hoped-for outcome, with significant support for territorial concessions.
Mattarella warns on Europe and global order. President Sergio Mattarella, speaking at the Conference of Italian ambassadors, urged Europe to remain united in defending democracy and human rights against Russia’s attempt to redraw borders by force. He condemned Moscow’s aggression, criticised threats to international courts, and warned that US tariffs and isolationist policies could destabilise the EU.
Russian embassy intervenes on Gedi newspaper sale. The Russian embassy in Italy commented on the planned sale of newspapers La Repubblica and La Stampa, accusing them of acting as “megaphones of anti-Russian propaganda” and expressing hope that new owners would restore professional journalism. The statement triggered strong bipartisan condemnation in Italy.
Terrorism alert and security measures. Italy has increased security around Jewish sites and public events following the Sydney attack, while avoiding alarmism. A meeting at the interior ministry will review surveillance for Christmas and New Year events, focusing on lone-wolf threats and extremist networks amid warnings of rising anti-semitic propaganda.
For daily News from Italy in English see the News section of our website.
Italy’s main news headlines from 6-12 December 2025.
Italian cuisine recognised by UNESCO. Italian cuisine has been officially recognised by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage, the first time an entire national culinary tradition has received this status. The decision highlights Italy’s sustainable food practices, biodiversity and the transmission of culinary knowledge across generations. The recognition was celebrated nationwide, with prime minister Giorgia Meloni calling it a historic achievement for “Made in Italy”. The goal is also to protect authentic traditions from global imitation and reinforce Italy’s cultural identity.
Ukraine aid and coalition tensions. Divisions have emerged within the governing coalition over military aid to Ukraine. Meloni’s Fratelli d’Italia party is calling for unity and responsibility, while the Lega is pushing to delay the new arms decree. Lega leader Matteo Salvini argues that the war cannot be won and that resources should instead be redirected towards domestic priorities such as healthcare.
Prison conditions under fire. President Sergio Mattarella has strongly criticised the state of Italian prisons, describing conditions as “totally unacceptable” during a visit to Rome’s Rebibbia jail on Human Rights Day. Pointing to overcrowding and a rise in suicides, he called for urgent reforms to safeguard human dignity and restore the constitutional, re-educational purpose of prison sentences.
Atreju and the politics of entertainment. Atreju, Fratelli d’Italia’s annual festival, featured prominent TV figures such as Mara Venier and Carlo Conti, warmly received by party leaders. The presence of mainstream media personalities reflects FdI’s strategy to appear inclusive and popular, blending entertainment with politics ahead of Meloni’s closing speech.
Italy–India strategic ties. Foreign minister Antonio Tajani met Indian prime minister Narendra Modi to strengthen bilateral relations, with a focus on the India–Middle East–Europe Corridor (IMEC) for trade, energy and data. Tajani underlined cultural cooperation and reaffirmed Italy’s commitment to peace initiatives in Ukraine and the Middle East. Tajani’s visit to Delhi and Mumbai aims to deepen cooperation across politics, business, culture and sport. The trip supports the 2025–29 strategic action plan and the IMEC project, and includes a major business forum with 200 companies, meetings with leading conglomerates and tech firms, and initiatives in sports and cultural diplomacy.
Mattarella on wages and labour rights. In a message to business group Confesercenti, President Mattarella reiterated that wages must guarantee a “free and dignified existence”, as stated in Article 36 of the constitution. While praising small businesses and the self-employed as key drivers of growth, he warned against “pirate contracts” and wage dumping, which undermine workers’ rights and deepen inequality.
Gold reserves dispute and budget delay. Italy’s budget bill has stalled in the senate due to a clash with the ECB over an amendment declaring national gold reserves the “property of the people”. Economy minister Giancarlo Giorgetti insists the proposal complies with EU rules, while opposition parties criticise a lack of transparency. Experts stress that the gold already belongs to the Bank of Italy and cannot be sold under EU treaties, making the move largely symbolic and potentially misleading.
Hospital quality and regional gaps. According to Agenas’ 2025 report, 15 Italian hospitals achieved high or very high quality of care in at least six major clinical areas. Overall performance is improving, but significant north–south disparities remain. In particular, complex cancer surgeries continue to carry higher risks in southern regions.
Justice reform referendum timing. The government is seeking to move the justice reform referendum to early March, aiming to shorten the campaign and limit the chances of a No-side revival. Constitutional experts, however, argue that legal timelines make voting before late March impossible.
Evacuation of children from Gaza. Seven Palestinian children from Gaza arrived in Rome aboard an Italian Air Force C-130 to receive medical treatment, welcomed by Antonio Tajani at Ciampino airport. In total, 17 patients are being evacuated to Italy across three flights, accompanied by relatives and carers. This brings the number of Gaza children treated in Italy to 232.
For daily News from Italy in English see the News section of our website.
Italy’s main news headlines from 15-21 November 2025.
Privacy & Institutional Affairs
Privacy authority scandal. Angelo Fanizza, secretary-general of Italy’s privacy authority, has resigned following controversy over an internal investigation involving alleged invasive checks on staff emails and system access. Unions demand the board’s resignation, while the authority denies authorising the probe, warning such actions could violate privacy laws. The crisis raises concerns over internal governance and data-protection compliance.
Government–Quirinale tensions. Despite an official “truce,” tensions persist between PM Meloni’s government and the Quirinale over remarks attributed to presidential adviser Francesco Saverio Garofani. While Mattarella and Meloni held a clarifying meeting, irritation remains inside the presidency. Meloni’s right-wing Fratelli d’Italia party pushes for further accountability, though moderates insist no institutional plot existed. Commentators warn the clash introduced distrust into previously solid relations.
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Regional politics & elections
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by PostX News and is published from a syndicated feed.)
