Italy PM Urges Iran to Avoid Middle East Escalation

Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni urged Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to prevent escalation in the Middle East, focusing on the Gaza conflict and emphasizing the importance of dialogue. Meloni's calls included concerns about Lebanon, highlighting the need to avert further conflict and promote peaceful resolutions.

Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni urged Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to prevent further escalation in the Middle East during a call on Thursday, according to a statement from her government.

Meloni stressed the importance of preventing the Gaza conflict from spreading, particularly to Lebanon, and called for a renewed commitment to dialogue.

The Italian prime minister's office emphasized the urgency of avoiding additional conflict and reopening communication channels. (Francesca Piscioneri; Editing by Keith Weir)

(With inputs from agencies.)