The government of Giorgia Meloni on Wednesday approved a bill that would allow Italy to impose naval blockades on migrant vessels attempting to enter its territorial waters under specific national security conditions.

According to Italy’s Corriere della Sera, the legislation permits maritime interdictions in cases involving concrete risks of terrorism or terrorist infiltration, exceptional migratory pressure that threatens border security, public health emergencies, or other extraordinary international developments.

Vessels found violating a declared naval blockade could face fines of up to 50,000 euros unless the conduct qualifies as a criminal offense. Repeat violations would result in confiscation of the ship. The bill now moves to the Italian parliament for debate and final approval.

The measure comes hours after the European Parliament approved revisions to European Union asylum rules. The updated framework allows member states to deny asylum claims from individuals originating from countries deemed safe or from migrants who could have sought protection in a non-EU country.

In a video message posted to social media, Meloni said the legislation is consistent with the EU’s new Migration and Asylum Pact and applies in situations involving serious threats to public order or national security. She said it would also address exceptional migration pressure by preventing unauthorized entry into Italian waters and enabling the transfer of migrants intercepted at sea to third countries.

“To all those who said it was impossible, I would like to remind you that nothing is truly impossible for those who are determined,” Meloni said, adding that the government is committed to securing Italy’s borders and protecting its citizens.

The bill also includes expanded powers to expedite the expulsion of convicted foreign nationals and broadens the list of crimes that can trigger deportation, including violence against public officials, enslavement, and domestic abuse. Meloni said individuals who do not respect Italian law should not remain in the country.

Italian Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi said the proposal strengthens migration management and reinforces the principle that Italy’s borders are also Europe’s borders. He stated that prohibiting entry into territorial waters for national security reasons is both lawful and necessary to combat human smuggling and safeguard public safety.

The legislation now faces parliamentary review as Meloni urges lawmakers to support what her government describes as a firm but lawful approach to migration enforcement.