Demonstrators criticized Italy’s government for not adequately supporting the crews on the flotilla. They are urging the government to sever military ties with Israel, recognize a Palestinian state, and reduce arms expenditure. Rome stated it will not acknowledge Palestinian statehood until hostages are freed and Hamas is no longer governing Gaza.
On Friday, protesters blocked major highways in Pescara, Trento, Bologna, Milan, and Turin. They also disrupted trains in Florence, Genoa, Perugia, and Cagliari by walking onto the tracks. Riot police clashed with protesters in Turin and Naples.
Striking transport workers, healthcare workers, and teachers resulted in canceled trains and closed schools, while students occupied universities. In Livorno, dockworkers obstructed port gates, leading to long lines of stationary trucks.
Transport Minister Matteo Salvini declared the strike illegal and warned strikers of potential penalties. Meloni stated the disruption would not aid Palestinians but would trouble Italians, accusing strikers of seeking a long weekend.
In Rome, a procession of demonstrators marched from Termini train station, which was cordoned off by police.
“This government doesn’t condemn what is happening in Gaza,” said Clara, a 24-year-old protestor from Vicenza. “It sends arms to support a genocide while there is no money for health, education and wages.”
An eight-year-old child held a sign: “Children of Gaza, we are with you, I too am Global Sumud Flotilla.”
Maurizio Landini, leader of CGIL, stated that protesters were sending a “message of solidarity and fraternity to the entire world,” and urged that “a serious government should have the humility to listen to the people.”
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