Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s cabinet approved a tough new anti-immigration package on Wednesday, February 11, 2026. The proposal introduces a potential “naval blockade.” It also expands state powers to intercept, fine, and deport foreign nationals.
This announcement comes 24 hours after the European Union updated its asylum rules. Italy has long pressured Brussels for a “zero-tolerance” approach to irregular migration.
The Naval Blockade: Security vs. Sovereignty
The bill allows authorities to ban vessels from Italian waters for up to six months. The government can trigger a 30-day ban if a ship threatens public order or national security.
Criteria for Vessel Bans:
- Terrorism: Risk of extremist infiltration via sea routes.
- National Security: General threats to public peace.
- Border Overload: Mass arrivals that overwhelm border management.
For terror risks, the 30-day ban can extend to six months. Critics call this an “exclusion zone” or a de facto naval blockade.
Heavy Fines and Asset Confiscation
The bill targets groups that repeatedly violate entry bans. These penalties directly challenge humanitarian rescue ships (NGOs) in the Mediterranean.
| Penalty Type | Details |
| Administrative Fines | Up to $59,400 (€55,000) for illegal entry. |
| Asset Confiscation | State seizure of ships for repeat offenses. |
| Third-Country Transfers | Moving migrants to “safe” partner nations. |
The third-country rule supports the Italy-Albania protocol. This allows for asylum processing outside the Italian mainland.
Conflict with International Law
Human rights groups have condemned the proposal. Giorgia Linardi, a spokesperson for SeaWatch, questioned its legality under global frameworks.
“International law requires the rescue of anyone in distress at sea,” Linardi said. “These people are survivors. Suggesting they are terrorists is ridiculous.”
Maritime conventions require states to allow rescue ships to dock at a “place of safety.” Italy’s “push-back” model may violate United Nations treaties.
Stricter Surveillance and Deportations
The package also tightens domestic controls. The government plans to expand border surveillance with help from Frontex.
The bill broadens the list of crimes leading to deportation. This “security-first” plan fast-tracks the removal of non-citizens with criminal records. It moves away from rehabilitation toward immediate expulsion.
The European Context
Italy’s shift reflects a decade of changing European politics. Since 2015, anti-migrant sentiment has influenced governments across the continent. Many states now prioritize border protection over internal solidarity. Italy’s bill serves as a model for aggressive deterrence.
Next Steps: The Parliamentary Battle
The cabinet has approved the package, but Parliament must still vote. While Meloni holds a majority, the “naval blockade” clause faces fierce opposition. Constitutional experts are reviewing whether seizing NGO property violates private ownership rights.
