Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto issued a dramatic warning about a potential conflict with Iran, citing “terrible” information that indicates escalating tensions, with consequences that could be felt across Europe.
In an interview with La Repubblica, Crosetto said the threat is not only military but also social and economic. He admitted that the situation occupies his thoughts constantly, saying:
“I live this war and its possible consequences 24 hours a day. Due to the nature of my work, I have access to information that makes me unable to sleep. I fear what might happen in the coming weeks, as well as the effects on the economy and daily life.”
Crosetto also emphasized that Italy has not been involved in the key decisions that led to the current tensions. He noted that his country does not support war with Iran and that “no one asked for our opinion.”
A Conflict Potentially More Complex than Ukraine
Crosetto believes a war with Iran could be longer and more complex than the conflict in Ukraine, primarily due to Iran’s size, population, and historical strength:
“Iran is larger, more numerous, and historically stronger than Ukraine, which makes it a difficult opponent,” he warned.
Analysts suggest his concerns are linked to the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial chokepoint for global energy trade. Recently, U.S. President Donald Trump extended the deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait, threatening strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure if no agreement is reached. Tehran has rejected U.S. proposals, calling them “excessive and unreasonable.”
About Guido Crosetto
- Born in 1963 in Cuneo, Italy
- Active in politics since the 1990s
- Served multiple terms in the Italian Parliament
- Minister of Defense since October 2022 under PM Giorgia Meloni
- Co-founder of the Brothers of Italy (Fratelli d’Italia) party
- Former Secretary of State at the Ministry of Defense (2008–2011) under Silvio Berlusconi
- Former president of the Italian Defense and Security Industry Federation (AIAD, 2014–2022)
