2013 Italy–India diplomatic tensions

The 2013 Italy–India diplomatic tensions refer to a protracted dispute between India and Italy centered on the arrest and subsequent legal proceedings involving two Italian marines, Massimiliano Latorre and Salvatore Girone. In February 2012, the marines were accused of killing two Indian fishermen off the coast of Kerala while guarding a commercial vessel. The incident ignited controversy, raising issues of sovereignty, legal jurisdiction, and international relations. Tensions escalated when Italy's government unilaterally decided to allow the marines to return home for political reasons, leading to India's outrage and subsequent diplomatic actions. The stand-off highlighted the complex nature of bilateral relations and ongoing discussions over international maritime law and accountability.