The security of Cyprus and developments in the southeastern Mediterranean were at the center of an emergency meeting of the Italian government in Rome, as the escalating conflict with Iran raises serious concerns for the wider region.
According to Sigmalive, citing Italian media outlets such as UPDAY and The Socialist, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni convened a meeting at Palazzo Chigi with Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and Defense Minister Guido Crosetto. They discussed measures to support allies in the Middle East and strengthen the security of Cyprus, which is considered exposed to the consequences of regional tensions.
On the table is the possible deployment of an Italian frigate to the waters around the island, with a mission to enhance air defense and protect commercial shipping. FREMM-class warships are equipped with radar capable of detecting threats up to 200 kilometers away, as well as Aster 30 missiles with a range of about 100 kilometers.
Particular importance is given to the 76mm rapid-fire gun, which has proven highly effective against drones, an increasingly used threat in the strategy of Iran and its allies.
Alternatively, the deployment of the destroyer Caio Duilio is being considered. It is equipped with one of the Italian Navy's most powerful radars and has air defense capability up to 350 kilometers, offering even greater protection against missile and ballistic threats.
At the same time, Rome is deeply concerned about the potential effects of a disruption of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, through which a significant portion of global energy flows passes. A prolonged crisis could cause oil and gas prices to rise, directly affecting the European economy.
In this context, the Meloni government is also considering sending SAMP-T air defense systems and military equipment to Gulf countries, such as the United Arab Emirates and Kuwait, to strengthen defense against drone attacks.
Πηγή: en.protothema.gr
