Meloni takes a hard line, Italy wants naval blockades

The Italian government, led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, has approved a bill that will allow the introduction of naval blockades during times of "exceptional pressure" on the borders.

Rome could thus ban ships carrying migrants from entering its territorial waters for up to six months if it justified this on the grounds of protecting public order or national security. Violation of the ban could result in a fine of up to €50,000 and, in the event of a repeat offense, the confiscation of the vessel.

The measure will apparently affect mainly humanitarian rescue ships, which the government has long criticized, saying that they encourage migrants to make dangerous voyages across the Mediterranean Sea. The proposal comes shortly after the European Parliament tightened EU asylum rules.

However, the Italian opposition warns that a repressive approach will not solve the migration problem and may only deepen tensions in society. The law still has to pass both houses of parliament.

(reuters, pir)