Overview
- Italy’s cabinet approved a draft on Feb. 11 allowing authorities to bar boats from territorial waters during exceptional pressure or security threats for up to 30 days, extendable to six months.
- Breaches would draw fines up to €50,000, with repeat violations leading to vessel seizure, a provision widely viewed as targeting humanitarian rescue ships.
- The bill enables transferring intercepted migrants to third countries under bilateral deals, reviving offshore processing plans such as stalled centers in Albania.
- The package also strengthens border surveillance and seeks faster removals by broadening offenses that can trigger expulsion.
- The proposal must pass both chambers before taking effect, with rescue groups and legal experts warning of likely court challenges over international and maritime rescue law.