Rome has sent two Canadair water‑bombers to assist Israel in battling forest fires, acting swiftly under the EU’s rescEU mechanism. The move underscores EU solidarity in civil protection and reinforces Italy–Israel ties, highlighted by President Mattarella’s Independence Day message praising their “rich partnership” and shared democratic values
Decoding the news. Italy has deployed two firefighting aircraft to Israel under the EU’s rescEU civil‑protection scheme, joining multiple partners in fighting forest fires around Jerusalem and reinforcing Italy–Israel solidarity.
- Italy’s rapid contribution, along with Ukraine, Spain, France, Romania, and Croatia, showcases the bloc’s collective disaster‑response capacity.
What happened. Italy’s Civil Protection Department activated two Canadair aircraft after Israel’s request via Brussels’ Emergency Response Coordination Centre.
- It demonstrates Italy’s willingness to leverage its national assets for both European mechanisms and strategic bilateral ties.
Bilateral bond. Arrivals on Thursday, May 1, coincide with Israel’s Independence Day celebrations, underlining the “rich political, cultural and economic partnership” noted by Italian President Sergio Mattarella.
- In his message to Israeli President Isaac Herzog, President Mattarella also praised shared democratic values, condemned last year’s terrorist attacks, and called for a two‑state solution “in full accordance with international law.”
- Israeli Ambassador in Italy, Jonathan Peled, thanked the Italian government on X for “valuable, timely assistance” on Independence Day.
Between the lines. Italy’s deployment not only aids Israel but also cements Rome’s role as a proactive EU and Mediterranean security partner.
- The operation may pave the way for further civil‑defence collaboration under joint European and bilateral frameworks.
