The Meloni government’s draft immigration bill, approved by cabinet on February 11, 2026, would permit interdiction of boats from entering Italian waters for 30 days, renewable to six months, on broad grounds including “exceptional migratory pressure” or “grave threats.” It contemplates returning people to third countries without individual protection assessments, and heavy penalties for NGOs that continue sea rescue.

Coupled with EU Pact-derived accelerated border procedures, the law would institutionalize rapid deportation and curtail humanitarian operations on a Mediterranean route already marked by catastrophic death. Parliament should subject the bill to strenuous legal scrutiny, excise measures that obstruct lifesaving assistance, and ensure compliance with refugee and human-rights obligations.

Sources: Amnesty/HR commentary and analysis, cabinet approval, Feb 11, 2026; European Parliament and EU Pact timelines, 2025–2026.