Security has been increased at the embassies whose countries are currently involved in military action against Libya: the US embassy on Via Veneto, the British embassy on Via XX Settembre and the French embassy in Piazza Farnese. In recent days the already well-guarded embassies have added extra security agents outside their walls. Security has also been increased at other important international bodies such as UN agencies and Italian state buildings like Palazzo Chigi.

The move comes as part of a nationwide effort to increase vigilance in Italy, with surveillance being stepped up in Rome's two international airports Fiumicino and Ciampino. Intelligence teams are monitoring the comings-and-goings of visitors to Italy from destinations they deem to be "delicate" and have increased random checks of passengers on