ROME, Italy — Tens of thousands of Italians took to the streets on Monday, joining one of Europe’s largest nationwide protests against Israel’s offensive in Gaza. Demonstrations, strikes, and port blockades disrupted cities from Milan to Palermo, highlighting growing public anger over the humanitarian crisis.
Nationwide Protests Erupt Across Italy
Grassroots unions called for a 24-hour general strike to denounce what they described as genocide in Gaza. Citizens responded in force, shutting schools, blocking roads, and creating mass gatherings in at least 75 municipalities. In Rome, more than 20,000 students and workers waved Palestinian flags outside Termini railway station, chanting, “Free Palestine!”
Students and Workers Take to the Streets
Secondary school and university students formed a visible core of the protests. Michelangelo, 17, told AFP he came out to support “a population that is being exterminated.” Other participants emphasized their stance against the Israeli government, clarifying they were not antisemitic.
Alessandra, a political science student, referenced a recent UN commission report accusing Israel of committing genocide in Gaza. She said, “This doesn’t mean we’re anti-Jews. It just means we’re against a government committing genocide while the world looks away.”
Port Blockades Highlight Rising Tensions
Dock workers in Genoa and Livorno blocked major ports, citing concerns that Italy was being used as a staging post for arms shipments to Israel. Organizers under the slogan “Let’s Block Everything” called on the government to suspend both commercial and military cooperation with Israel.
Milan saw roughly 50,000 participants, with police reporting over 10,000 in Bologna. Tensions escalated in Milan when dozens of protesters armed with batons attempted to break the main entrance of the central train station.
Government Response and Political Stance
Italy’s ultra-conservative government, led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, has adopted a cautious approach to the war in Gaza. While Meloni has expressed concern over Israel’s offensive, Italy will not recognize a Palestinian state for now.
Meloni explained in July that early recognition could appear symbolic rather than solving the underlying conflict. Additionally, Italy has been hesitant to implement EU-proposed trade sanctions against Israel.
Calls for International Action and Sanctions
Protesters demanded that Italy and the EU take a stronger stance. Many expressed support for the Global Sumud Flotilla, an initiative of small boats delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza. Activists urged the government to act decisively against what they see as a failure to address the crisis effectively.
The demonstrations reflect deep public frustration and show the significant role grassroots movements play in shaping Italy’s foreign policy debate.
