Widespread demonstrations brought significant portions of Italy to a standstill as tens of thousands participated in coordinated protests against the ongoing military operations in Gaza. The nationwide mobilization resulted in school closures, transportation disruptions, and port blockages across multiple cities.
The protests coincided with diplomatic developments at the United Nations, where several European nations moved to formally recognize Palestinian statehood. Italy’s government has maintained a separate position, with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni previously expressing skepticism about recognizing Palestinian statehood before its formal establishment.
Labor organizations called for a 24-hour general strike, citing governmental inaction regarding the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Demonstrations occurred in at least 75 municipalities, from northern industrial centers to southern coastal cities.
In multiple port cities, dockworkers halted operations over concerns that Italian facilities were being used to facilitate weapons transfers. Rome witnessed one of the largest gatherings, with thousands assembling near the central railway station displaying Palestinian flags and chanting protest slogans.
Participants emphasized their opposition was directed at government policies rather than religious or ethnic groups. “We’re tired of this being misrepresented,” stated one university student. “Our protest is against actions that international bodies have described as genocidal, while world leaders remain passive.”
The demonstrations operated under the banner “Let’s Block Everything,” demanding the immediate suspension of Italy’s commercial and military agreements with Israel. Protesters also expressed support for international humanitarian efforts aiming to breach the naval blockade of Gaza.
Police reported several incidents where protests turned confrontational. In Milan, authorities used pepper spray against demonstrators who attempted to force entry into the central station, while in Bologna, water cannons dispersed crowds blocking major thoroughfares.
The protests represented one of the largest coordinated actions in Europe concerning the conflict, which has resulted in substantial casualties according to United Nations assessments. The Israeli military operation began in response to an attack that killed approximately 1,200 people and resulted in hundreds taken hostage.
