Tensions have escalated between Donald Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni after Trump publicly criticized her stance on Iran and US military alignment.

Speaking in an interview with Corriere della Sera, Trump accused Meloni of “lacking courage” for not supporting Washington more strongly in its position on Iran, questioning Italy’s approach to Iranian oil exports and nuclear concerns.

The comments triggered a sharp diplomatic reaction from Rome, deepening existing strain between the two leaders.

In response, Meloni’s government announced the suspension of the automatic renewal of its defense cooperation agreement with Israel, signaling a notable shift in Italy’s foreign policy posture.

The agreement, originally signed in 2016, had governed military cooperation, technology sharing, and joint defense projects between the two countries.

Meloni also condemned Trump’s remarks about Pope Leo, calling them “unacceptable,” and rejecting the idea that political leaders should dictate religious conduct.

Trump, however, doubled down, saying Meloni’s position was “unacceptable” given what he described as rising risks linked to Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

The dispute has also drawn in the Vatican, with Trump criticizing Pope Leo for “not doing a very good job” and alleging alignment with “the radical left.”

Despite the tension, Meloni reiterated that the United States remains a “priority ally,” while stressing that strong alliances must allow space for disagreement.

Domestically, her government is under pressure following a recent justice referendum defeat widely interpreted as a setback for her leadership.

Analysts say the vote has intensified scrutiny of her foreign policy alignment with Trump and her broader handling of Middle East tensions.

Economic concerns are also rising, with disruptions linked to instability in the Strait of Hormuz pushing up energy costs across Europe.

Political historian Lorenzo Castellani noted that rising diesel prices are increasing public anxiety over the economic consequences of prolonged conflict.

The widening dispute is also exposing divisions within NATO, with Trump accusing European allies of failing to provide adequate support during escalating tensions.

He previously described the alliance as a “paper tiger,” warning of possible troop withdrawals if partners do not increase military commitments.

Italy’s decision to suspend its defense agreement with Israel marks its most significant policy shift in over a decade of cooperation.

The move follows growing domestic criticism over Israel’s military actions and repeated diplomatic incidents involving Italian officials and UN peacekeepers.

Rome had previously maintained the agreement despite criticism, limiting its response to isolated condemnations rather than structural changes in defense ties.