Italian, Iraqi foreign ministers discuss latest developments in Middle East

ATHENS

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani spoke by phone Monday with his Iraqi counterpart Fuad Hussein on the latest developments in the Middle East.

Noting that the call took place as part of the Italian government’s efforts to prevent further tensions in the region, Tajani said “stability in Iraq is crucial for security in the area.”

He said Italy also wants to work in cooperation with Iraq for a cease-fire in Gaza and to achieve peace in the Middle East.

Nearly 40,000 Palestinians have been killed since Israel launched a brutal onslaught against the Gaza Strip on Oct. 7 last year following an attack by the Palestinian resistance group Hamas.

The assault has led to increased regional tensions, with the latest escalation occurring last week after Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh was assassinated during a visit to Iran.