Italy Approves Bill Enabling Naval Blockades to Curb Migration

The Italian cabinet, led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, approved a migration bill on February 11, 2026, designed to curb undocumented immigration. The legislation authorizes the Italian navy to impose naval blockades on migrant ships for up to 30 days, extendable to six months, in cases of exceptional migratory pressure or serious threats to national security, such as terrorism and health emergencies.

Under the new measures, violators face fines up to 50,000 euros and the potential confiscation of their vessels, a provision specifically targeting humanitarian rescue ships and people smugglers. The bill also expands the grounds for expelling foreigners—including those convicted of domestic abuse or violence against public officials—and increases border surveillance. If passed by parliament, the government intends to utilize processing centers in Albania as holding facilities for those denied asylum, bypassing previous court objections.

This domestic initiative follows a European Parliament vote to allow member states to deport migrants to designated safe third countries. Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi stated the bill implements the EU Migration and Asylum Pact, while Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani noted that the EU's confirmation of the safe countries list proves Italy's approach is correct. The legislation now awaits approval from both chambers of the Italian parliament.