Italy’s government has decided to suspend the automatic renewal of its defence cooperation agreement with Israel. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni announced the decision, linking it to the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.

Italy, which has been one of Israel’s closest allies in Europe under Meloni’s right-wing government, has recently taken a more critical stance. The government has expressed concern over Israeli military actions in Lebanon, where Italian troops are also deployed under a United Nations mandate.

Meloni said in Verona that, considering the current situation, Italy has chosen to stop the automatic renewal of the defence agreement with Israel. Her statement was reported by Italian media agencies.

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According to a defence ministry source, the decision means Italy will no longer take part in military training cooperation with Israel, marking a significant shift in defence ties between the two countries.

The move was reportedly taken after discussions on Monday involving the prime minister, foreign and defence ministers Antonio Tajani and Guido Crosetto, as well as Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini.

Officials said the decision reflects growing political and security concerns in the region, especially as the situation in Lebanon continues to affect international peacekeeping forces.

Israel’s foreign ministry has not yet issued an official response to Italy’s decision.