Italy was paralysed on Monday as workers and trade unions staged nationwide strikes and protests against Israel’s ongoing assault on Gaza and Rome’s unwavering support for Tel Aviv.
Hundreds of thousands of demonstrators — including government employees, dock workers, and students — filled the streets across more than 75 municipalities, from Milan to Palermo. Protesters demanded an immediate halt to Italian arms shipments to Israel and denounced what they described as genocide in Gaza.
The strikes disrupted public transport, education, and administrative services. In several cities, protesters blocked port entrances, occupied railway stations, and clashed with police. Authorities reported tear gas was used in Milan, Naples, Genoa, and Trieste to disperse crowds.
In Rome, over 20,000 people gathered at Termini station, chanting “Free Palestine” and calling on Italy not to become a hub for the transfer of weapons and military equipment to Israel.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s right-wing government is viewed as one of Israel’s staunchest allies in Europe. It has repeatedly dismissed international appeals to recognize a Palestinian state. In July, Meloni told La Repubblica that doing so would be “counterproductive,” adding: “If something that doesn’t exist is recognised on paper, the problem could appear to be solved when it isn’t.”
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