On Friday, workers in Italy participated in a general strike, expressing solidarity with the people of Gaza rather than demanding improved pay or working conditions. The protests, which occurred in multiple cities, were part of a larger wave of demonstrations across Europe regarding Israel’s military actions in Gaza.
According to Italy’s Interior Ministry, up to 400,000 protesters attended events in 29 locations, while trade unions reported numbers four times higher. Tensions escalated following an incident where the Israeli military intercepted a flotilla of boats carrying European politicians and activists aiming to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza, amidst reports of famine in the region.
Italy’s Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, criticized the strike for not contributing to the Palestinian cause and suggested it hindered everyday life for Italians. Her deputy, Matteo Salvini, labeled the action illegal and threatened penalties. Nevertheless, many protesters displayed slogans including “Stop the Massacre” and “Hands off the Flotilla!” During the protests, some clashes erupted in cities such as Milan and Bologna, where police used tear gas in response to stone-throwing.
In Rome, while many protesters demonstrated peacefully, some briefly occupied a motorway. A small tent camp was also established near Termini railway station with a sign that read “Piazza Gaza.” Protesters expressed frustration with the government’s perceived inaction on Gaza’s situation.
Opposition leader Elly Schlein remarked that Italy’s government has not adequately addressed the actions of Israel in Gaza, framing it as a “shame.” Prime Minister Meloni has linked recognition of Palestine with the release of Israeli hostages and Hamas’s exclusion from government, yet she has acknowledged the loss of innocent lives in Gaza.
As protests continued, four Italian politicians who were detained during the flotilla returned to Rome, while more than 40 Italians remain in custody following the incident. Despite the flotilla’s cargo being confiscated, some activists still view the endeavor as a significant achievement.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cy8rdd5dzvro?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss