Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni meets United Arab Emirates leadership
Zeta Italy News: Italy-UAE business forum focusing on cultural exchange took place in Rome at the Parco dei Principi, involving 200 companies and resulting in more than 40 bilateral agreements. Sheikh Al Nahyan was in attendance: it was the first state visit of a United Arab Emirates president to Italy. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni hailed the event as a “historic day,” emphasizing its significance in strengthening ties between the two nations.
Mattarella: two-state solution is the only path to lasting peace
During the state dinner at the Quirinale with President of United Arab Emirates Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Italian President Mattarella reaffirmed the necessity of a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine. He urged continued diplomatic efforts, and highlighted the dire humanitarian conditions in Gaza, saying that renewed conflict would neither guarantee Israel’s security nor provide a solution for the Palestinian people.
Transport strike disrupts services across Italy
A 24-hour transport strike is causing disruptions across Italy. The strike, called by USB Lavoro Privato, affects workers from FS Italiane, Trenitalia, Trenitalia Tper, and Trenord. Guaranteed service windows are in place for essential travel, but passengers are advised to check schedules to avoid inconvenience.
Sicilian regional deputy arrested for vote buying in Mafia investigation
Giuseppe Castiglione, a Sicilian regional deputy and leader of the Popolari e Autonomisti group, has been arrested on charges of vote buying. The investigation, named “Mercurio,” uncovered alleged mafia infiltrations by the Santapaola-Ercolano clan into local institutions. Alongside Castiglione, a city councilor, Matteo Marchese, and 17 others were also arrested. The charges include drug trafficking, extortion, and political-mafia electoral exchange.
Surge in juvenile homicide offenders, victims double
Italy has seen a sharp rise in homicides committed by minors in the past year. Data from law enforcement highlights an alarming trend of increasing violence among young offenders. Experts attribute the phenomenon to social instability, exposure to crime, and growing gang-related activities. Authorities are calling for urgent preventive measures to address juvenile delinquency and its root causes.
Father arrested for beating his 4-year-old son
A man has been arrested for severely beating his own kid in a case of child abuse. He was left with fractures on his leg and arm. Authorities intervened after receiving reports of the brutal mistreatment, and the child has been taken into protective care. The episode happened on february 4, but was only recently rendered public.
Spyware scandal: Don Mattia Ferrari among those monitored
Don Mattia Ferrari, chaplain of Mediterranea Saving Humans, was reportedly spied on using the Israeli spyware Graphiteby Paragon. This follows similar allegations involving Mediterranea’s mission leader, Luca Casarini. The organization has filed a complaint seeking clarification on state involvement. Amid the controversy, Paragon has terminated its contract with Italy.
Pope Francis: respiratory emergency improving
The respiratory crisis that Pope Francis experienced in the past days in his room at Gemelli Hospital has significantly improved. According to Vatican sources, the Pope is still receiving supplemental oxygen through nasal cannulas to assist with his breathing. A new medical update is expected soon as the faithful community continues to pray and remain close to the Pope.
Rossellini and Castellitto shine as “Conclave” wins at SAG Awards
The two Italian actors of the thriller took center stage at the 31st Screen Actors Guild Awards as Conclave won Best Cast, strengthening its Oscar prospects. Rossellini, praised for her performance, emphasized the film’s relevance by mentioning Pope Francis’ hospitalization. Castellitto echoed her concerns, reflecting on the possible imminence of a real conclave.
Sports weekend roundup: rugby, skiing, and football
The Italian rugby team, defeated by France, remains second to last in the tournament. In skiing, Italian athlete Federica Brignone maintained her unbeaten streak with a victory in the Giant Slalom at Mont Tremblant. In Serie A football, Inter Milan secured victory with a goal from Lautaro Martinez to stay at the top of the table, followed by Napoli who lost to Como. Atalanta is in third place, while Juventus sits alone in fourth after winning against Cagliari. The final match of the round between Roma and Monza is scheduled for at 20:45.
