Ammon News - Italy is ‌planning to send air defence aid to Gulf countries in response to Iranian air strikes, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said, underscoring Rome’s concern for the safety of its citizens and troops in ​the region as well as for energy security.

"Like the United Kingdom, France and ​Germany, Italy intends to send assistance to Gulf countries, specifically in ⁠the field of defence and in particular air defence," Meloni told a radio station on Thursday.

She said the move was driven not only by diplomatic ties but ​by the presence of Italians on the ground. Tens of thousands of Italian nationals live in the Gulf, while around 2,000 Italian troops are deployed there, she said.

"These are people we want to, ​and must, protect," Meloni added, noting that the Gulf region was also vital ​for Italy’s and Europe's energy supplies.

Reuters