ROME: Cities across Italy witnessed pro-Palestinian demonstrations, strikes, and blockades on Monday as unions and civic groups mobilised to “denounce the genocide in Gaza” and demand diplomatic and economic sanctions against Israel.
From Rome to Milan, Naples to Palermo, thousands marched in solidarity with Palestinians, waving flags and chanting “Free Palestine!”. In the capital, hundreds of high school students rallied outside Termini train station, AFP reported.
“I’m here to support a population that is being exterminated,” said Michelangelo, 17.
For many, including first-time protester Francesca Tecchia, 18, the scale of destruction in Gaza had become “too important” to ignore.
Ports Blocked, Transport Disrupted
The mobilisation stretched across the country. Dockworkers in Genoa and Livorno blocked access to ports, while bus and metro services in Rome were disrupted, leaving commuters stranded.
“Italy must come to a standstill today,” Federica Casino, a 52-year-old worker who joined students in the streets, told AFP. “Italy talks but does nothing. We are protesting for Gaza’s dead children and destroyed hospitals.”
Meloni’s Government Holds Back
The demonstrations came as France and several other countries prepared to formally recognise the State of Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Recognition by the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada on Sunday added diplomatic weight to the campaign.
But Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s ultraconservative government remains cautious. Closely aligned with US President Donald Trump, Meloni has voiced “concern” over Israel’s offensive but insists Rome will not recognise Palestine “for the moment”. Italy has also resisted calls within the European Union for trade sanctions on Israel.
