Rome, Italy — Tens of thousands of demonstrators took to the streets of Rome this weekend in a massive pro-Palestinian protest following Israel’s interception of a Gaza aid flotilla. The rally quickly escalated into one of Italy’s largest political demonstrations in years, underscoring the growing anger over the Gaza conflict and Italy’s muted response.
The flotilla, part of an international humanitarian mission, was attempting to deliver medical and food aid to the besieged Gaza Strip when it was stopped by the Israeli navy. More than 400 activists, including dozens of Italian citizens, were detained before being deported. The incident triggered immediate outrage, sparking a wave of protests and a nationwide general strike that paralyzed much of Italy.
A Nationwide Movement
Organized by Italy’s largest trade union, CGIL, the strike drew millions of supporters across more than 100 cities. In Rome, the turnout reached unprecedented levels — crowds packed major avenues, waving Palestinian flags and chanting “Free Gaza” and “End the blockade now!”
Transportation across Italy came to a standstill. Train lines and metros were shut down, flights delayed, and schools closed. Protesters blocked key roads and intersections, forcing the government to deploy riot police in several major cities.
According to reports, more than two million people participated nationwide, while Rome alone saw an estimated 300,000 demonstrators filling Piazza Venezia, Via del Corso, and the streets near the Colosseum.
Tension and Political Fallout
While the majority of the protests remained peaceful, smaller groups clashed with police near Termini Station, throwing fireworks and setting off smoke flares. Authorities made several arrests but described the events as “mostly contained.”
The demonstrations have placed significant pressure on Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government, which has been accused of being too aligned with Israel. Protesters and opposition lawmakers are demanding a stronger humanitarian stance and an official call for an end to the blockade of Gaza.
Meloni dismissed the strike as a “political stunt,” arguing that the protests were being used to manipulate public sentiment. Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani maintained that Italy supports both Israel’s security and the protection of civilians in Gaza — a position that protesters say fails to address the humanitarian crisis.
Global Ripple Effect
The Rome protests mirrored similar demonstrations across Madrid, Paris, Lisbon, and Berlin, where tens of thousands also took to the streets in solidarity with Gaza. Activists have pledged to continue weekly marches until the international community acts to end the blockade and deliver aid safely.
The Gaza flotilla seizure has reignited debate about Israel’s naval restrictions and the legality of its actions in international waters. Human rights groups are calling for a UN investigation, while Italian politicians face mounting pressure to clarify their stance.
As night fell over Rome, chants of “Palestina libera!” echoed through the capital — a sign that the outrage over Gaza’s suffering is not fading anytime soon.
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