Italy's political leaders clash over fake video and Strait of Messina bridge dispute

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni accused opposition leader Giuseppe Conte of publishing a fabricated video that appeared to show her in parliament, labeling the clip a "fake news" stunt. Conte defended the montage, saying it was a criticism of perceived subordination, and the exchange heightened tensions between the government and the Five Star Movement.

In a separate confrontation, Conte harshly criticized Lega vice‑premier Matteo Salvini, calling him "a fool" and accusing him of accumulating political failures while defending the contentious Strait of Messina bridge project. Conte linked the bridge to a corruption probe and a recent Court of Auditors ruling that stalled the work, framing the issue as emblematic of governmental mismanagement.