Morphed images of Italian Prime Minister circulated on obscene websites; Giorgia Meloni announces strict action

ROME: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has announced strict action against those who circulated morphed images of her on obscene websites. The images, featuring opposition leader Elly Schlein, Giorgia Meloni, and her sister Arianna, were edited and morphed with offensive captions. Meloni called the images shocking and said that the perpetrators would face severe punishment.

The morphed images were created using photos taken from social media and other public sources and then shared on adult websites. Following public outrage, the website was shut down. The site administrators said the images had been misused by users.

Meloni expressed solidarity and support for all women who have been insulted, humiliated, or subjected to abuse online. She also criticised those who still believe that sexually abusive and insulting behaviour carried out anonymously online or behind a keyboard is normal or lawful, calling it deeply disappointing.