The rift between the U.S. and its traditional European allies has intensified due to the breakdown of the once close relationship between President Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. This comes after Meloni criticized U.K. military actions in Iran and Italy refused to allow U.N. bombers to refuel at a southern Italian military base before striking Iran. She also declined to participate in military operations to reopen the Strait of Hormuz during Iran’s initial blockade. This decision disappointed the Trump administration as Italy is dependent on the Gulf region for its energy resources. Meloni, who had previously been seen as a key strategic partner between the US and Europe, has now publicly distanced herself from Trump, believing the partnership could derail her domestic policy agenda and her political standing. A recent survey showed that her approval rating has dropped to 39 percent, with a record 55 percent disapproving of her performance in office.