Nationwide Strikes Disrupt Italy as Protests Against Gaza War Intensify
Rome, italy – Tens of thousands of protesters brought Italy to a standstill Monday, staging strikes and demonstrations across the country to condemn the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Transportation networks were severely disrupted, with rail lines blocked and roads congested, as activists demanded an immediate ceasefire and a more assertive stance from the Italian government.
The widespread protests reflect growing public outrage over the escalating violence in Gaza, where Israel‘s military operation has resulted in over 65,000 palestinian deaths in the last 23 months, according to recent reports. Manny more are feared buried under rubble, with a former Israeli army commander recently confirming over 200,000 Palestinians have been killed or injured. The demonstrations underscore a deepening divide within Italy regarding its response to the war, triggered by the October 7th Hamas-led attack on Israel that killed approximately 1,200 people and led to the capture of 250 hostages.
Federica Casino,52,explained her participation in a Rome protest,telling AFP,”Italy must come to a standstill today. Italy talks but does nothing.” She cited the deaths of children and the destruction of hospitals in Gaza as her motivation.
While Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government has expressed concerns about the Israeli offensive, it has maintained a cautious position, especially given its efforts to strengthen ties with the management of Donald Trump in the United States. Transport Minister Matteo Salvini downplayed the impact of the strikes, characterizing them as the work of “far-left unionists” and commending those who continued to work.
the protests come as the Israeli military intensifies its operations in Gaza, raising further concerns about the humanitarian crisis and the mounting civilian death toll. demonstrations were reported in major cities including Naples and Rome, with activists calling for a complete halt to arms sales with Israel and increased diplomatic pressure to achieve a lasting peace.
