Italy could suffer more economic damage than any other European country following the outbreak of conflict between the United States and Iran, according to analysis by the Italian television channel Sky TG24.
The broadcaster said its forecasts suggest prices in Italy could rise by an additional 1.1% due to shipping disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. This compares with an estimated inflation impact of 0.6% across the eurozone, and 0.5% in Germany, the United Kingdom, and 0.4% in France.
Sky TG24 noted that gas accounts for 35.1% of Italy’s total energy consumption, a higher proportion than in several other major European economies, including Hungary, the Netherlands, and Ireland. The report also highlighted concerns over supply disruptions, saying one of Europe’s key suppliers, Qatar, which previously provided more than half of its EU gas exports to Italy, has suspended production.
The channel further warned that Italy is projected to record one of the weakest growth rates in Europe this year, with GDP growth not expected to exceed 0.5%, compared with 0.6% in Slovakia, 0.7% in Romania, and 0.8% in Germany and the United Kingdom.
Separately, Sky TG24 cited a YouTrend opinion poll indicating that 79% of Italians view US actions in Iran negatively. Among supporters of opposition parties, that figure rises to 98%. The survey also found that 47% of respondents believe the Italian government should have condemned US and Israeli strikes on Iran. The poll was conducted between April 11 and 13 among 815 Italian adults.
By Sabina Mammadli
