Italian PM Giorgia Meloni Investigated Over Release of Libyan War Crimes Suspect

The ICC seeks answers after Italy freed Osama Elmasry Njeem, accused of torture and murder, citing procedural issues.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and three top officials are under investigation for aiding and abetting a crime and misuse of public funds following the release of Osama Elmasry Njeem.
Njeem, a Libyan police chief wanted by the ICC for war crimes, was arrested in Turin but freed and flown to Libya on an Italian government plane days later.
The Italian government claims procedural errors in Njeem's arrest prompted his release, but critics allege political motives tied to Italy's reliance on Libya for migration control.
The ICC has demanded an explanation, emphasizing Italy's obligation as a founding member to cooperate with the court's investigations and prosecutions.
Meloni has publicly defended the decision, accusing the investigation of being politically motivated and asserting that she will not be intimidated or blackmailed.