Rome Times

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Sunday, Mar 09, 2025

Italy Commemorates 20th Anniversary of Nicola Calipari's Death

Italy Commemorates 20th Anniversary of Nicola Calipari's Death

President Sergio Mattarella honors the legacy of the fallen intelligence officer amidst ongoing questions surrounding his death.
On the occasion of the 20th anniversary of Nicola Calipari's death, Italian President Sergio Mattarella commemorated the contributions of the intelligence officer who lost his life during a mission in Baghdad, aimed at rescuing journalist Giuliana Sgrena.

President Mattarella emphasized the importance of remembering Calipari's sacrifice, highlighting his bravery as he shielded Sgrena from gunfire with his own body.

The President expressed his condolences to Calipari's family and colleagues, acknowledging the ongoing ambiguity regarding the circumstances of his death.

Nicola Calipari was born in Reggio Calabria in 1953 and graduated in Law before joining the police force.

He quickly rose through the ranks, engaging in significant efforts against organized crime including the 'ndrangheta and Cosa Nostra.

Due to threats to his safety, he was compelled to relocate to Australia for several months.

Upon his return to Italy, he served in various roles including head of the Criminalpol Center in Rome.

In 2002, after two decades in law enforcement, Calipari joined the Italian military intelligence agency, Sismi, and was subsequently deployed to Iraq.

Prior to his last mission, Calipari was instrumental in the negotiations for the release of several other hostages, including humanitarian workers Simona Pari and Simona Torretta.

On March 4, 2005, while driving toward Baghdad airport with Sgrena, Calipari's vehicle encountered a U.S. military checkpoint where gunfire was opened.

He was shot in the head and died instantly, heroically ensuring that Sgrena was protected.

In another health-related developing story, Pope Francis remains hospitalized at the Gemelli Polyclinic in Rome, currently stable following a bilateral pneumonia diagnosis.

The Vatican has reported that the Pope has not exhibited respiratory distress since March 3, although he will continue to receive non-invasive mechanical ventilation during the night as a precautionary measure.

The medical team highlighted that his clinical situation is complex, requiring ongoing evaluation.

As he marks almost three weeks of hospitalization, the Pope has engaged in some activities, including receiving the Eucharist and participating in a traditional Ash Wednesday blessing.

Catholic officials have confirmed that spiritual exercises will commence for the Roman Curia in conjunction with the Pope, who maintains a positive demeanor despite these health challenges.

While there has been discussion among medical experts regarding the implications of the Pope's health, including potential links between his weight and the pneumonia, the overall prognosis remains guarded.

The Vatican has communicated that further assessments and updates on the Holy Father's health will be provided as circumstances develop.
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