Tens of thousands of Italians mobilised across the country in one of Europe&rsquo;s largest demonstrations against Israel&rsquo;s military campaign in Gaza. The protests disrupted schools, rail services, ports and major roads.
The unrest coincided with moves by France and several other nations to recognise Palestinian statehood at the UN, a step already taken by the UK, Canada, Portugal and Australia. Italy, however, has resisted the move, with its leadership arguing that formal recognition should not precede the establishment of a Palestinian state.
The call for action came from grassroots unions, which declared a 24-hour general strike in solidarity with Gaza, criticising the Italian and EU governments for failing to respond to the humanitarian crisis. Demonstrations took place in at least 75 municipalities, from Milan to Palermo. Dock workers in Genoa and Livorno shut ports over fears that Italian facilities were being used to transfer weapons to Israel.
In Rome, more than 20,000 people rallied outside Termini station, while Milan saw an estimated 50,000 participants. Bologna reported over 10,000 demonstrators. Clashes erupted in Milan when masked groups attempted to storm the central train station, hurling smoke bombs and stones at police, who retaliated with pepper spray. In Bologna, police deployed water cannons to disperse crowds blocking major roads.
Participants demanded that Italy suspend commercial and military cooperation with Israel and expressed solidarity with the Global Sumud Flotilla, an international initiative aiming to break the naval blockade of Gaza and deliver aid.
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Strike across Italy disrupt daily life as citizens protest Israel’s Gaza offensive

Italy Sees Mass Protests Against Gaza War

Strike across Italy disrupt daily life as citizens protest Israel’s Gaza offensive

September 23, 2025 | 15:23 IST