Rubio to Hold Key Talks With Meloni as Iran Conflict Strains US-Italy Ties

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will meet Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Friday.

As Washington and Rome attempt to ease mounting tensions over the Iran war, trade disputes and broader disagreements between the United States and Europe. The talks come after weeks of friction triggered by President Donald Trump’s criticism of European allies for refusing to fully back US military actions against Iran. Trump’s tariff threats and his remarks targeting Pope Leo XIV have further strained ties with Italy, once considered one of his closest allies in Europe.

Rubio is also scheduled to hold discussions with Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani as Rome tries to maintain its strategic partnership with Washington while firmly opposing direct involvement in the conflict. Meloni has publicly condemned the war, calling it “illegal,” and criticised Trump’s comments about the pope as “unacceptable.” Trump responded by accusing the Italian leader of failing to support the United States and suggested their once-close relationship had deteriorated.

Italy has repeatedly stated it will not take part in military operations against Iran. The government has also made clear that any US request to use Italian military bases for offensive missions would require parliamentary approval, where opposition to the conflict remains strong.

The issue became more sensitive in March after Italy reportedly declined to authorise US bombers heading to the Middle East to stop at the Sigonella air base in Sicily without formal approval.

Washington’s frustration with European allies has also extended to defence cooperation. The US recently announced plans to remove thousands of troops from Germany, while Trump has warned of possible troop reductions in Italy and Spain because of their position on the Iran war.

Italian officials fear any reduction in US military presence could weaken NATO operations in southern Europe, especially as Italy plays a crucial logistical role for missions across the Mediterranean, North Africa and the Middle East.

The conflict has also created economic and political challenges for Meloni. Rising oil prices linked to instability around the Strait of Hormuz and fears of new US tariffs have increased pressure on Italy’s export-driven economy. At home, Meloni is also facing growing public opposition to the war following a recent referendum setback.

Ahead of Friday’s meetings, Rubio visited Vatican City, where he held discussions with Pope Leo XIV and Cardinal Pietro Parolin. According to US officials, the talks focused on promoting peace in the Middle East and reaffirming ties between Washington and the Holy See.