Sources said that supplies to Gulf nations may include surface-to-air missile SAMP/T batteries
Italy is planning to send air defence aid to Gulf countries and naval assets to Cyprus after Iranian air strikes, the government said on Thursday, amid concern for the safety of citizens and troops in the region as well as for energy security.
As the US-Iran war entered its sixth day, the conflict has widened beyond Gulf states and into Asia, convulsing global markets and prompting thousands of stranded tourists and residents to try to flee the Middle East.
Right-wing Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said Italy would respond to aid requests from Gulf nations seeking air defence equipment to counter Iranian air strikes, while also looking to protect Italians on the ground.
“These are people we want to, and must, protect,” Meloni told radio station RTL 102.5.
In an address to the lower house of parliament, Defence Minister Guido Crosetto said Italy had also lifted its national air defences to the highest level.
“When faced with a reckless reaction, we can expect anything and everything,” he said, referring to Iran’s retaliatory strikes this week. He added Rome would send vessels to protect Cyprus along with some European allies.
Source: News - South China Morning Post
