Former US President Donald Trump has ignited a heated dispute with Italy by alleging that PM Giorgia Meloni pleaded with him for a photo opportunity. In response, Meloni vehemently denied Trump’s claim, stating that neither she nor Italy resorts to begging. The confrontation unfolded at the G7 summit, where Trump and Meloni were photographed engaged in conversation on a small sofa. Trump later asserted in a brief phone interview with Italian TV channel La7 that Meloni had requested the photo, implying he obliged out of pity.
An incensed Meloni took to Instagram to rebuff Trump’s accusations, expressing her bewilderment at his behavior towards allies. She criticized Trump for being more accommodating towards the enemies of the West and the US than towards allies. This clash led Italy’s Deputy PM to cancel an upcoming trip to the US, denouncing Trump’s remarks as offensive towards Meloni and Italy.
Meanwhile, efforts to initiate crucial talks with Iran hit a snag following a preliminary peace agreement. Iranian officials postponed their trip to Switzerland, citing the need for Israeli strikes on Iranian-backed Hezbollah militants in Lebanon to cease before negotiations could proceed. Amid escalating tensions, Israel and Hezbollah agreed to renew their ceasefire, potentially paving the way for the resumption of US-Iran talks. However, Trump, amidst the turmoil, remained resolute in his stance, emphasizing Iran’s purported desperation in a social media declaration.
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