Workers in Italy joined a general strike on Friday, not for better pay or conditions, but in solidarity with the people of Gaza.
Large crowds took to the streets of multiple cities amid a growing wave of protest across Europe regarding Israel's bombardment and blockade of the Gaza Strip.
Italy's Interior Ministry estimates up to 400,000 protesters gathered in 29 locations; however, trade unions claim the number was four times that.
Anger grew this week when the Israeli military boarded a flotilla of boats carrying European politicians and activists attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza, where UN-backed experts have confirmed famine in Gaza City and its surrounding areas.
Israel dismissed this flotilla as a publicity stunt, noting that there were over 40 Italians on board.
Criticism of the general strike came from Italy's hard-right Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who stated it hindered ordinary citizens' lives. Her deputy, Matteo Salvini, labeled the strike illegal and threatened sanctions.
Despite governmental pushback, protest banners proclaiming Stop the Massacre and Hands off the Flotilla! were prominently displayed.
From Calm to Clashes
In several cities, including Milan and Bologna, clashes occurred as protesters threw stones at police, who responded with tear gas. In Pisa, activists temporarily halted airport flights, while dockworkers in Naples blockaded the port, and protesters in Turin obstructed railways.
Protests also spread across Europe, with gatherings from The Hague to Madrid.
In Rome, the main march remained largely peaceful, with participants expressing a dire need for government intervention regarding the Gaza crisis.
Meloni Under Pressure
Opposition leader Elly Schlein expressed that the current government does not reflect Italy's better values, criticizing Meloni for not condemning Israel's actions decisively. Meloni has previously insisted that her government would recognize Palestinian statehood only under specific conditions, including the release of Israeli hostages and a ban on Hamas's governance.
Nonetheless, she has recently acknowledged that too many innocent lives are lost in Gaza, indicating a subtle shift in her government’s stance.
Political analysts suggest that these protests signal a revival of Italy's left-wing activism and a clear indication that the government is facing increasing pressure from the public.
A Call to Action
As protests continued across Italy, the return of four Italian politicians deported from Israel came with a warm reception, demonstrating the divided sentiments within the country regarding Gaza. Despite confiscated aid from the flotilla, activists believe that the demonstrations could foster hope and catalyze more significant action against the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
