Protests, strikes, and blockades are taking place today across several Italian cities, as unions called on citizens to “condemn the genocide in Gaza” and demand the introduction of economic and diplomatic sanctions against Israel.
Italy’s Position on Palestine
So far, Italy has refused to join the growing number of countries recognizing the State of Palestine. With this latest wave of recognitions, more than 80% of UN member states now officially recognize Palestine.
The ultra-conservative government of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, ideologically aligned with U.S. President Donald Trump, has taken a very cautious stance on Israel’s war against Palestinians in Gaza, repeatedly expressing only “concern.”
Rome has also been reluctant to support EU proposals for trade sanctions against Israel.
Nationwide Demonstrations
- In Rome, hundreds of high school students marched with Palestinian flags, chanting “Free Palestine!”
- Protests also erupted in Milan, Turin, Florence, Naples, Bari, and Palermo.
- In Genoa and Livorno, dockworkers blocked ports.
- In Rome, public transportation was disrupted or completely halted due to the strikes.
Italian Public Opinion
According to a recent survey by the Only Numbers Institute, 63.8% of Italians believe the humanitarian situation in Gaza is dire, while 40.6% support recognizing the Palestinian state.
