Italy Takes Strong Measures to Curb Migrant Influx and Smuggling

Italy's right-wing government, led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, has passed measures to crack down on immigration, including increasing the detention period for migrants from three to 18 months and constructing new detention centers. The move comes after a surge in arrivals by boat, with over 10,000 people landing on the island of Lampedusa this month. Meloni stated that the battle against immigration is "an epochal battle for Italy and Europe" and aims to send a message to potential migrants that they will be detained and sent back if they attempt the journey. The opposition criticizes the measures, calling for safe and legal ways to reach Europe.