Iranian Ministry denies link between Italian journalist arrest and Abedini
Zeta Italy News. A silent sit-in was organized by the Order of Journalists on January 7 in Rome at 11:30 AM, in solidarity with Cecilia Sala, detained in Iran since December 19. “She violated Islamic laws, and her arrest has nothing to do with Abedini’s arrest in Milan”: this is the statement from the spokesperson of the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Esmail Baghanei, as reported by the Tasnim news agency. Regarding the case of the Italian journalist, he further added, “an investigation has been opened”.
Government clarifies SpaceX rumors
Prime minister’s office denies reports of agreements with SpaceX. It confirmed discussions with Elon Musk’s firm are exploratory, dismissing reports of any agreements or contracts being finalized with SpaceX, following rumors about collaboration on projects such as satellite deployment or space exploration.
Tricolor Anniversary, Sergio Mattarella: “It summarizes our identity as a people”
The official adoption of the tricolor took place on January 7, 1797. It was first used by the Cispadane Republic in Reggio Emilia. “The tricolor evokes the pride of the civic virtues inherent in feeling Italian, and expresses to the world the values of our community, of our homeland,” said the President of the Republic, Sergio Mattarella, on the occasion of the anniversary. A series of celebrations are planned in the municipality of Reggio Emilia.
Elisabetta Belloni resigns from Intelligence leadership
The director of the Department of Information for Security (DIS), Elisabetta Belloni, has announced her resignation effective January 15, four months ahead of her term’s conclusion. Appointed in 2021, Belloni was the first woman to lead Italy’s intelligence services. Her decision, reportedly communicated to Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in December, is described as personal, with no immediate plans for another role.
Foggia Mafia fugitive arrested in Lazio
A fugitive linked to the Foggia mafia, Olinto Bonalumi, was arrested by the Italian police in the Lazio region. Bonalumi had been on the run for several years, facing charges related to mafia associations, extortion, and illegal trafficking. The arrest follows a nationwide operation aimed at dismantling organized crime networks in southern Italy. Authorities have praised the successful operation as a significant blow to the mafia’s influence.
Probe begins for alleged sexual attack in Milan on New Years
The Milan Prosecutor’s Office has formally launched an investigation to verify the sexual harassment claims from a Belgian student. She told an online Belgian newspaper that she and five of her friends were victims of an assault on New Year’s Eve in Piazza Duomo. The investigation currently without any suspects will be opened as a case of group sexual violence based on press reports after the young woman’s formal complaint.
Investigation leads to nine arrests over drug debts and kidnapping in Scicli
Nine arrests were made following the June 20 shooting in Scicli, Ragusa, involving the abduction of a 19-year-old later found in Siracusa. Investigations revealed the abduction stemmed from unpaid drug debts. The operation was coordinated by anti-mafia and juvenile prosecutors. The suspects, including four minors, have been charged with aggravated kidnapping and firearm offenses.
Film There is still tomorrow enters Oscar race
Paola Cortellesi’s work has been shortlisted for the 2025 Academy Awards. The film There is still tomorrow, set in post-war Rome, has already captivated audiences, earning accolades like the Biglietto d’Oro for over a million tickets sold in Italy. This recognition highlights its strong narrative on resilience and gender equality, cementing its position as a contender in the international film scene.
Milan clinches Supercup with last-minute comeback
Milan won the Italian Supercup, a tournament that pits the first and second-place teams from the Coppa Italia and Serie A against each other. An excellent starting point for Milan’s new coach, Sergio Conceição. The team secured a 3-2 victory against Inter, with a stunning comeback in the final minutes of the game.
Lodi province wins €5 million Italian lottery jackpot
The first prize of €5 million from the 2025 Lotteria Italia was won in Codogno, in the Lodigiano area, with the ticket series T 016433. This year’s lottery saw a significant rise in sales, with 6.6 million tickets sold—10% more than the previous year, marking the highest post-pandemic increase. The winning ticket was purchased at a local bar, whose owner expressed disbelief and excitement at the news. The identity of the lucky winner remains unknown.
