Could the Axis have invaded Malta?

Did Italy and Germany have the capacity to invade Malta?

The Axis could have attempted it, but losses at Crete and Malta's defenses would have made a successful invasion highly uncertain.

The Axis had already spent substantial amphibious and airborne capacity in the struggle for Crete. Malta presented another difficult defended target. Its command structure, troops, and preparations raised the likely cost of an invasion. The ability to launch the operation did not guarantee a favorable outcome.