Turkish-Israeli tensions escalate as Erdogan supports Hamas

Italian Vice-Premier Matteo Salvini has condemned Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan for calling Hamas a liberation group, stating that such words do not help de-escalate the conflict. Salvini plans to propose a formal protest and summon the Turkish Ambassador. Meanwhile, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed concern for the hostages held by Hamas and called for their immediate release. Defence Minister Guido Crosetto also met with a delegation of family members of Israelis murdered or kidnapped by Hamas, pledging to continue efforts to free the hostages.