MINISTER CROSETTO: ALPINO WILL REPLACE FASAN. NO TO UNNECESSARY RISKS

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"As I have clearly stated, both in Parliament and at the exit, there will not be two ships deployed simultaneously in the area. The frigate Alpino will replace the frigate Fasan, which will return to its original mission.

To repeat, as I clearly stated in Parliament, Italian naval units do not perform escort functions, nor will they leave international waters, should the flotilla decide to break through the Israeli blockade. In fact, one of the objectives is to prevent such an eventuality and avoid any possible negative consequences.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in close coordination with Defence, has already offered a concrete solution to allow the arrival of humanitarian aid, and has ensured the presence of a military ship near the area, ready to provide assistance and rescue. However, it remains essential that the flotilla does not attempt to breach the blockade: exposing human lives to risks in waters where it would not be possible to intervene in assistance makes no sense and would involve unnecessary dangers.

As I reiterated in the Chambers, repetita iuvant, both the Embassy and the Israeli Defence General Staff had been informed in advance, and constant contacts are maintained to monitor any possible issues. Furthermore, every action and decision is coordinated with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs."

Thus spoke the Minister of Defence, Guido Crosetto.