Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni met United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Rome on Friday as both sides attempted to ease growing tensions over the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran, trade disputes and recent criticism directed at Pope Leo XIV by U.S. President Donald Trump.
Rubio’s two-day visit came amid mounting pressure on Meloni’s government, which has sought to preserve close ties with Washington while facing domestic opposition to the conflict and concerns over its economic consequences.
The talks also reflected broader disagreements over military cooperation, NATO deployments and the future of trans-Atlantic relations.
Rubio met separately with Meloni and Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, urging European allies to take stronger action against Iran.
Speaking in Rome, Rubio warned that Tehran’s attempts to assert control over the Strait of Hormuz posed a threat to international security and freedom of navigation.
“Everybody says Iran is a threat. Everybody says that Iran can’t have a nuclear weapon … but you’ve got to do something about it,” Rubio said.
He also warned Iran against targeting U.S. naval assets, saying the United States had already thwarted attacks on American ships in the region.
Meloni described her discussions with Rubio as “constructive, frank and productive,” while stressing that Italy must continue defending its own national interests.
Italy has opposed the U.S.-Israeli bombing campaign on Iran and has resisted direct involvement in offensive military operations.
Rome previously declined to authorize the use of the Sigonella airbase in Sicily for combat missions linked to the conflict without parliamentary approval.
The dispute has intensified political pressure on Meloni ahead of national elections next year, with public concern growing over energy prices, inflation and the wider economic impact of instability in the Gulf.
Italian officials have also voiced concern over possible reductions in U.S. troop deployments across Europe after Trump threatened military withdrawals from Italy and Spain.
Rubio said no final decision had been made regarding NATO troop adjustments.
The visit also included meetings at the Vatican aimed at easing tensions after Trump criticized Pope Leo’s calls for peace.
Rubio described his talks with the pontiff and Vatican officials as “very positive,” while U.S. and Vatican representatives emphasized continued cooperation despite ongoing differences over the Iran conflict.