Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said on Thursday an investigation targeting her over the release of a Libyan war crimes suspect was bad publicity that could push away much-needed foreign investment.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has been placed under investigation over a government decision to release a Libyan police officer wanted by the International Criminal Court (ICC). Here is the background to the case and a look at what might happen next.

In contrast, Ms Meloni is the leader of a nationalist party with protectionist instincts. ■ For more expert analysis of the biggest stories in economics, finance and markets, sign up to Money Talks, our weekly subscriber-only newsletter.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni of Italy announced on Tuesday that she was being investigated by Italian prosecutors for her alleged role in aiding and abetting the release last week of a Libyan official wanted on war crimes charges.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, along with her justice and interior ministers, is under judicial investigation over Italy’s unexpected decision to release Libyan national Najeem Osema Almasri Habish.

Italy released Osama Elmasry Njeem on a technicality after he was arrested on a warrant from the International Criminal Court accusing him of war crimes.

Giorgia Meloni says Rome prosecutors have opened an investigation against her and two government ministers for repatriating a Libyan warlord wanted by the International Criminal Court.

Italy’s prime minister has addressed growing criticism of the repatriation of a Libyan warlord wanted by the International Criminal Court.

The Italian leader has the potential to serve as a key European ally in the quest for peace in Europe and the Middle East.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said on Tuesday she was under investigation over Italy's expulsion of the Libyan police chief Osama Najim, who is wanted for war crimes by the International Criminal Court.

The Italian appeals court refused to approve the speedy expulsion of 43 asylum seekers detained in Albania under a controversial migration deal.