The ongoing controversy surrounding the Sea-Watch 3 case relates to a €76,000 compensation that a Palermo court has ordered the Italian state to pay. This stems from the events of June 2019, when the NGO ship helmed by Carola Rackete collided with Italian finance police patrol boats while trying to disembark migrants in Lampedusa. Following the seizure of the vessel, the German NGO mounted a legal challenge, but received no response from the Agrigento prosecutor's office. According to current law, which stipulates the principle of silent acceptance, the automatic cessation of the seizure was established due to the lack of communication from authorities, leading to the court's ruling on compensation.

Ilaria Salis criticized the government, particularly targeting Minister Matteo Salvini, claiming the humanitarian actions taken by the NGO were fully compliant with legal standards. Her post represents an attempt to leverage the court decision to spotlight perceived governmental failings in handling migrant situations at sea. The ruling raises questions about the legal responsibilities of authorities in maritime operations involving NGOs and the treatment of migrants, thereby highlighting the ongoing tensions between humanitarian efforts and national immigration policies.

As the debate over the ruling continues, it reflects a broader national conversation in Italy regarding immigration, the responsibilities of the state, and the legal frameworks surrounding the actions of NGOs in rescue operations. This case is emblematic of the political divisions in the country, particularly concerning immigration policy and responses to humanitarian crises, as various actors seek to position themselves in relation to these pressing issues.