Italy says Gaza should be part of future Palestine state

By Ahmet Gencturk

ATHENS (AA) – Italy said Gaza should be part of the future Palestine state, Italian media reported on Monday.

According to the state-run news agency ANSA, Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani stated that Italy recognizes the Palestinian Authority, led by Mahmoud Abbas, as the sole legitimate entity to govern the future state of Palestine.

"We are ready to do our part if requested. Italy, with its credibility in the Middle East, can play an important role in the two-state solution,” he said.

Tajani also reiterated "full support for Israel's right to defend itself" and insisted that hostages in the hands of Hamas must be released unconditionally.

Furthermore, he stressed that Italy is "on the front line to assist the civilian population of Gaza".

As the Israeli assault on the Gaza Strip entered its 38th day, at least 11,180 Palestinians have been killed, including over 7,700 children and women, and more than 28,200 others have been injured, according to the latest figures by Palestinian authorities.

Thousands of buildings, including hospitals, mosques and churches, have also been damaged or destroyed in Israel's relentless air and ground attacks on the besieged enclave since last month.

The Israeli death toll, meanwhile, is nearly 1,200, according to official figures.