Italy's deputy PM

Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini faces a six-year prison sentence for allegedly blocking 147 migrants from disembarking from the Open Arms rescue ship in 2019, leading to their prolonged stay at sea under dire conditions. Prosecutors in Palermo have charged him with deprivation of liberty and abuse of office, arguing that his actions violated both Italian law and international conventions. Salvini, who was not present for the closing arguments, defended his actions on social media, claiming he would do it all again in the name of border security. The migrants were eventually allowed to disembark in Lampedusa after a court order, but not before several individuals attempted to jump overboard due to the worsening conditions on the ship. The case has drawn significant political attention, with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and other government officials expressing solidarity with Salvini, framing the prosecution as an attack on sovereign border control. A verdict is expected next month, after which Salvini may appeal any decision.