Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said her government will use “every tool at its disposal” to secure the country’s borders after approving naval blockade legislation, the latest step in a broader immigration crackdown that includes tougher penalties for human smugglers, restrictions on charity rescue vessels, and faster deportations.
The bill would allow authorities to ban boats from entering Italy’s territorial waters for up to 30 days, extendable to six months, during “serious threats to public order or national security,” including terrorism or surges in immigrant arrivals. Those violating the restrictions could face fines of up to €50,000 and possible boat confiscation for repeat offenses, with the policy targeting rescue ships. Immigrants on board could be transferred to countries other than their homeland if Italy has repatriation agreements in place.
In a social media message, Meloni said the law would expand deportation eligibility to immigrants convicted of crimes, including assaulting police or being accused of slavery or domestic violence, adding, “If you want to live here, you need to respect the Italian laws.”
The move follows the European Parliament’s approval of tougher EU asylum rules pushed by member states seeking stricter immigration policies. Meloni said the government is “determined to guarantee the security of our borders and our citizens.”
