Pro-Palestinian Protests Mount in Italy Amidst Shifting Government Tone
Milan, Italy – Pro-Palestinian demonstrations have been held across Italy in recent weeks, reflecting growing domestic pressure on the government of Premier Giorgia Meloni regarding its stance on the conflict in Gaza. While Italy remains a close ally of Israel within the european union, the demonstrations coincide with a more critical tone adopted by Italian officials toward Israeli policies.
The protests underscore a broader international push for a resolution to the conflict,which began over a century ago and escalated dramatically following the October 7,2023,attack by Hamas-led militants that resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people,mostly civilians,and the abduction of 251 individuals. As of May 17, 2024, 48 hostages remain in Gaza, with Israel believing 20 are still alive.
Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani recently stated,”It’s not through violence,by attacking security forces,blocking highways,stations and ports that we help the Palestinian civil population,” signaling the government’s disapproval of disruptive protest tactics. Despite this,the demonstrations highlight a notable segment of the Italian public advocating for Palestinian statehood.
Israel’s subsequent military offensive in Gaza has, according to the Gaza health Ministry, resulted in the deaths of more than 65,100 people over the past 23 months. The offensive has also led to widespread destruction, the displacement of roughly 90% of Gaza’s population, and a severe humanitarian crisis, with reports of famine emerging in Gaza City. While the ministry operates under Hamas control, U.N. agencies and autonomous experts consider its casualty figures the most reliable estimates available, though it does not differentiate between civilian and combatant deaths.
Italy does not currently intend to formally recognize a Palestinian state at this week’s U.N. General Assembly, joining other nations like France in withholding such recognition. The international community largely views the creation of a Palestinian state in east Jerusalem, the West Bank, and Gaza as the only viable path toward a lasting resolution to the conflict.