On February 28, Israel and the United States attacked Iran, starting a conflict that has sent shockwaves across the Middle East and the rest of the world. In a series of columns, our correspondents tell how the war has been received in countries around the world. Svea Mangili is FUF's correspondent in Italy in the spring of 2026.
Here in Italy, discussions about developments in the Middle East take a back seat to an already stressful everyday life. On the streets, the conversations are less about geopolitics and more about everyday issues such as the economy and crime. There is a tangible fear that the 2022 energy crisis and accompanying economic difficulties will repeat themselves. This time with the war in Iran as a catalyst.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni seems to be walking a difficult balance. Meloni has criticized the US and Israel's warfare, pointing out that their actions fall outside the framework of international law. At the same time, she has shown her support for allies in the region by open to de-escalating collaborations.
After information circulated that Sicilian bases had been used in the war, Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani reportedly saw it necessary to convey more clearly to both Iran and Italian public opinion that Italy is not a belligerent party and that it distances itself from both sides, geoanalysts note at SpecialEurasia.
Despite the political game, it is the questions of the wallet that dominate the media debate. There is talk of a new energy shock after the prices of gas used in industries have skyrocketed and increased by 70 percentSomething that in turn causes price increases on most everyday products.
At the same time, a gap is evident in the public discourse.
While the government has adopted a tough and pragmatic diplomatic line, the square outside the US embassy in Rome has been filled with protesters demanding that Italy distance itself even more from the military escalation. Italy is currently walking a difficult balance between loyalty to its NATO allies and the fear of being drawn into a war it has neither the finances nor the will to fight.
More perspectives on the war in Iran
This is a chronicle. The author is responsible for analysis and opinions in the text.
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