UPDATE: Large crowds flooded the streets of central Rome today as Italy experiences its fourth consecutive day of pro-Palestinian protests, ignited by Israel’s interception of an international flotilla aimed at delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza. Protesters, waving Palestinian flags and chanting “Free Palestine,” marched past the iconic Colosseum, with organizers hoping to attract over one million people.
Francesco Galtieri, a 65-year-old musician from Rome, voiced the urgency of the situation: “I’m here with a lot of other friends because I think it is important for us all to mobilise individually. If we don’t all mobilise, then nothing will change.” The protests erupted after Israel began blocking the flotilla late on Wednesday, leading to demonstrations not only in Italy but also across Europe and around the globe.
On Friday, unions declared a general strike in solidarity with the flotilla, resulting in demonstrations nationwide that saw participation from more than two million people, according to organizers. However, Italy’s interior ministry estimated attendance at around 400,000 for the protests.
The emotional toll on the participants is palpable, as many express their frustration over the ongoing conflict and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The protests have taken on a significant momentum, with citizens rallying in multiple cities daily.
Italy’s right-wing government, led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, has criticized the protests. She suggested that some participants might be using the occasion to extend their weekends rather than genuinely advocating for peace. Meloni also condemned the protesters for vandalizing a statue of the late Pope John Paul II outside Rome’s main train station, where pro-Palestinian groups have been demonstrating. “They say they are taking to the streets for peace, but then they insult the memory of a man who was a true defender and builder of peace. A shameful act committed by people blinded by ideology,” Meloni stated.
As the protests continue to escalate, the world is watching closely. What happens next remains uncertain, but the call for action is resonating across Italy, leaving many to wonder how this will impact local and international responses to the ongoing crisis in Gaza.
Stay tuned for further developments as this story unfolds.
