CHAOS in Italy: MASSIVE Protests Over Gaza War Erupt 2025
Tens of thousands protested across Italy, blocking roads, ports, and schools, demanding action against Israel’s Gaza offensive and justice for Palestine.
Italy Shuts Down in Solidarity With Gaza Amid Nationwide Protests
Tens of thousands of people staged nationwide protests across Italy on Monday, shutting schools, blocking ports, halting trains, and filling city streets in one of Europe’s largest demonstrations against Israel’s war in Gaza.
The protests coincided with moves by France and several other nations preparing to recognise Palestinian statehood at the UN General Assembly, following recognition by the UK, Australia, Portugal, and Canada on Sunday. Italy, however, distanced itself from the initiative, with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni warning it could be “counterproductive” to recognise a Palestinian state before its establishment.
Nationwide General Strike and Port Blockades
Grassroots unions declared a 24-hour general strike in solidarity with Gaza, citing frustration over the “inertia” of Italy and the EU in addressing the humanitarian crisis. Demonstrations erupted in at least 75 cities, including Milan, Rome, Palermo, Genoa, and Livorno.
Dock workers in Genoa and Livorno blocked ports, protesting what they described as Italy’s role in facilitating arms transfers to Israel. In Rome, more than 20,000 protesters gathered at Termini station waving Palestinian flags and chanting “Free Palestine.”
Organisers reported 50,000 protesters in Milan, while police estimated over 10,000 in Bologna. Clashes broke out in Milan when masked demonstrators hurled bottles, stones, and smoke bombs at police. Security forces responded with pepper spray, and water cannons were used in Bologna to disperse crowds. At least 10 arrests were made, and 60 police officers sustained injuries, according to ANSA News Agency.
Voices From the Streets
Protesters included students, unionists, and families. A 17-year-old demonstrator told AFP he wanted to support “a population that is being exterminated.” Another student, Alessandra, said:
“This doesn’t mean we’re anti-Jewish or antisemitic. It means we’re against a government committing genocide while the world looks away.”
Federica Casino, 52, highlighted reports of children killed and hospitals destroyed in Gaza:
“Italy must come to a standstill today. Italy talks but does nothing.”
Political Reactions
PM Giorgia Meloni condemned the violence, saying:
“Violence and destruction have nothing to do with solidarity and won’t change a thing in Gaza.”
Her far-right government, which maintains close ties with former US President Donald Trump, has voiced concern over the war but avoided firm actions against Israel. Transport Minister Matteo Salvini dismissed the protests as “political mobilisation of far-left unionists” and praised citizens who went to work.
Gaza Toll Rises
The protests come as Israel intensifies its assault on Gaza. According to reports, more than 65,000 Palestinians have been killed in nearly two years of conflict, with thousands more missing under rubble. Former Israeli officials estimate that over 200,000 Palestinians have been killed or injured since October 2023, when Hamas-led militants attacked Israel, killing 1,200 people and taking 250 hostages.
Italy erupts in massive protests against Israel’s Gaza war, with ports, schools, and trains shut nationwide.
From Rome to Milan, tens of thousands join Italy’s strike in solidarity with Gaza, demanding action and justice.
Italy witnesses one of Europe’s biggest protests as citizens rally against Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
