Netanyahu approves ceasefire in Lebanon, Tajani plauds Italy’s decisive contribution
Zeta Italy News. Israel approved a ceasefire in Lebanon on the night of November 26, set to take effect on November 27. “If Hezbollah violates the agreement, we will strike,” affirmed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in an address to the nation. The objective, he continued, is to “separate the fronts and isolate Hamas”. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani celebrated the ceasefire and emphasized Italy’s significant contribution following the conclusion of the G7 Foreign Ministers’ summit.
Salvini intervenes to limit November 29 strike, Landini calls for contract renewals
Salvini has signed an order to limit the planned strike on November 29 to four hours. The aim is to avoid further chaos for Italians. “I decided to step in directly to prevent another Friday of disruptions,” he said in a video message. CGIL (General Confederation of Italian Workers) Secretary Maurizio Landini responded, arguing that “instead of blocking strikes, the focus should be on renewing contracts to protect mobility and citizens’ rights”.
Majority clash over RAI license fee’s cut
Forza Italia voted with the opposition against the League’s amendment to reduce the RAI license fee from €90 to €70. Sources from Palazzo Chigi downplayed the situation, calling it a minor setback for the majority. “The divisions are evident. They are competing instead of governing the country. Meanwhile, they neglect health, wages, and the real problems of Italians,” said Democratic Party secretary Elly Schlein.
Parliament stops amendment on party funding increase
The Italian Parliament has halted an amendment proposing to double public funding for political parties, citing opposition from the Quirinale (the office of the President). The initiative faced criticism for its timing and transparency concerns. Key changes include reducing the designated percentage from 2 per mille to 0.2 per mille but expanding eligibility to all taxpayers. This means that if a taxpayer does not specify a party, their share will be distributed among parties based on the preferences of those who do indicate a choice. The decision aligns with ongoing scrutiny of budget allocations amid Italy’s financial challenges.
Europe backs Italy’s budget plan, growth conditioned to debt reduction
The European Commission has given the green light to Italy’s medium-term structural budget plan and extended it from four to seven years. The fiscal path has been deemed “credible” to ensure that public debt starts a downward trajectory. While caution is necessary for the budget law, the goal of reducing debt “does not prevent efforts to work for growth,” said EU Commissioner Paolo Gentiloni.
International crackdown on illegal streaming networks
A major anti-piracy operation has targeted illegal streaming activities across Italy and seven other countries. The investigation started from Catania and helped to reconstruct a pyramid organization that managed three billion euros of business a year. Authorities have dismantled a transnational network that distributed live sports events, films, and TV shows from platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Sky via unauthorized IPTV systems. Over 20 suspects face charges related to criminal association and computer fraud.
Agnelli inheritance: new claims of fraud
Margherita Agnelli, daughter of Fiat icon Gianni Agnelli, alleges fraud in managing her family’s inheritance. She claims documents were forged to declare her mother, Marella Caracciolo, a Swiss resident, avoiding Italian taxes on hidden assets, including €3.5M in evasion. Further scrutiny is focused on John Elkann, chairman of Stellantis and Margherita’s son, who allegedly facilitated these arrangements. Prosecutors are exploring whether employees were fraudulently placed on corporate payrolls while working for Marella and whether valuable family artworks have been illicitly transferred or concealed.
Fate of landmark trial for the Rigopiano disaster
The Court of Cassation is ruling on the Rigopiano disaster trial, deciding whether to confirm the eight convictions and twenty-two acquittals from the appeals court or reopen the case. Giampaolo Matrone, a survivor of the tragedy, has expressed concern about a potential injustice for the victims. Marco Foresta, whose parents were among those killed, stated he doesn’t expect significant changes, emphasizing that justice remains a painful issue for the families. The Prosecution has requested a review of the acquittals related to the management of avalanche risk.
Champions League: Inter secures top spot, Atlanta dominates, Milan clenches victory
A Leipzig own goal was enough to secure Inter’s victory in the fifth round of the Champions League. For Simone Inzaghi’s team, it’s their fifth consecutive match without conceding a goal. Thus, Inter ensured top spot in the Champion’s standings. Atalanta dominated with a 6-1 win over Young Boys, while Milan claimed a 3-2 victory against Slovan Bratislava.
Singer Max Pezzali to host major New Year’s Eve show
Max Pezzali, a renowned Italian pop artist and former frontman of the band 883, has announced a grand concert to celebrate New Year’s Eve 2024 at Milan’s Unipol Forum. Known for his nostalgic hits from the 1990s and 2000s, Pezzali plans to perform classic tracks such as Sei un mito and Hanno ucciso l’Uomo Ragno. The night will transition into a dance party featuring popular DJs from the iconic DEEJAY TIME lineup. This event is part of Pezzali’s MAX FOREVER tour, which has drawn thousands of fans across Italy.
