Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Tuesday called on the pro-Hamas Global Sumud flotilla to halt its advance toward the Gaza Strip, warning that the effort to break Israel’s naval blockade could undermine newly renewed hopes for peace. Her appeal came shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump unveiled a 20-point peace plan, which she described as offering “real hope” that the warring parties may finally reach an agreement to bring an end to the ongoing conflict.
“I believe the flotilla should stop now and instead accept one of the various proposals put forward for the safe and secure delivery of humanitarian aid,” Meloni stated on social media. According to the prime minister, the attempt to force entry into Gaza’s coastal waters risks becoming a dangerous “pretext” for renewed hostilities that could jeopardize diplomatic progress.
She emphasized that while the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, irresponsible actions could make it worse: “Any other option risks becoming a tool to hinder peace, fuel conflict, and ultimately harm the people of Gaza themselves. It is time to act seriously and responsibly.”
Echoing Meloni’s message, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar underlined that the United States, Israel, and key Middle Eastern partners are currently engaged in “serious efforts” to end the war. He urged international actors to prioritize “de-escalation and constructive dialogue,” not “orchestrating provocations” like the flotilla.
“It is not too late,” Saar continued. “We reiterate the call made by the Israeli Government, the Italian Government, and even the Vatican: humanitarian assistance should be delivered peacefully, through recognized channels such as the port of Cyprus, the Ascalon Marina, or other agreed-upon ports in the region.”
Both leaders stressed that diplomacy, not confrontation, offers the only path to lasting peace and relief for civilians trapped in the conflict.
