Urging the protection of democratic values, says Rula Jebreal on concerns about Matteo Salvini's leadership.

For the first time, Rula Jebreal had her face to face with Giorgia Meloni during a TV debate in November 2

Their encounter occurred on Piazzapulita, an Italian talkshow broadcasted on privately-owned television channel La7. The discussion took place following the US presidential election and six years before Meloni assumed the role of prime minister. They were discussing Donald Trump's victory at that time.

Giorgia Meloni was a member of Brothers of Italy, a political party known for its neofascist roots, which had not yet gained significant traction in Italian politics during this period. In contrast, Rula Jebreal, an Israeli-born Palestinian and the first black Muslim woman to present an Italian TV news show, was relatively new to the country as a student at that time and had become known for addressing issues like racism and misogyny in her reporting.

During their debate, Jebreal confronted Meloni about Trump's rhetoric against immigrants and its influence on increasing racism within Italy. She also questioned the lack of acknowledgment from Meloni when reminded of Italy's historical association with fascism under Mussolini's regime.

Their exchange set Jebreal apart as a critic of Italy's far-right, and it gave insight into what would become Meloni's approach to her political opponents in the future. Following their debate, Rula faced numerous online attacks and threats from supporters of Brothers of Italy, including a defamation lawsuit filed by the party after the September 2022 general election victory.

Despite this, Jebral remains committed to her country and emphasizes that protecting democratic values in Italy is crucial, considering its history with fascism.