GAZA, August 12, 2025 (WAFA) – Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni held a phone call this afternoon with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, during which he expressed sincere appreciation for Italy’s crucial humanitarian support and its firm stance on the Palestinian cause.

According to a statement issued by Palazzo Chigi, Meloni  shared deep concern over recent Israeli decisions that appear to be heading toward further military escalation, emphasizing that the humanitarian situation in Gaza is unjustified and unacceptable."

The Prime Minister called for the urgent need for an immediate cessation of hostilities, in order to continue providing humanitarian assistance to a dire civilian population.

She also agreed with President Abbas that Hamas must release all hostages and accept that it has no future in governing the Strip.

Meloni also reiterated Italy's commitment on the humanitarian front, through the Food for Gaza initiative, including the airdrops currently underway, and the evacuation of more than 150 children in need of treatment so far.

She informed President Abbas the arrival of additional children in need of medical care in Italy in the coming days.

During the call, the Prime Minister "finally affirmed Italy's readiness to play its part in the stabilization and reconstruction of Gaza, reaffirming the need to work towards a political process leading to a just and lasting peace in the Middle East through a two-state solution."

The two leaders agreed to meet in New York on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly.

Y.S