Italy has approved the construction of what will be the world's longest suspension bridge, connecting the mainland to Sicily across the Strait of Messina. The project, estimated to cost between 13 billion and 15.6 billion euros ($15.5 billion), aims for completion by 2032. The bridge will span approximately 3.3 to 3.6 kilometers, featuring the longest single-span suspension design globally. The Spanish construction firm Sacyr has secured a contract worth around 10.6 billion euros to build the bridge. The initiative, first proposed during the Roman era and championed recently by Italian political figures including Matteo Salvini, is intended to enhance connectivity and is planned to be partially financed through NATO defense budgets. However, the project faces strong opposition from environmentalists, local residents, and political critics who cite concerns over ecological damage to protected ecosystems, earthquake risks, potential mafia infiltration, and the financial burden. Thousands have protested in Messina against the bridge, and legal challenges are expected that may delay its progress. The government plans to include the bridge's cost within its defense expenditure, further fueling debate over its justification and impact.