Solidarity in Strikes: Italians Rally for Gaza Amid Growing Tensions

Fri Oct 10 2025 22:27:24 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

In an unprecedented move, thousands of workers in Italy paused their daily routines to strike in support of the Palestinian people amidst escalating violence in Gaza. As protests sweep across Europe, the Italian government faces increasing scrutiny over its stance on the conflict.

Italy witnessed a significant general strike on Friday, where workers united not for labor issues, but in solidarity with the Palestinians amidst the ongoing Gaza crisis. With protests erupting in cities across the country, tensions with the government mounted as Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni criticized the strike while union leaders urged for solidarity with those affected by the conflict. The atmosphere turned tense in some areas, leading to clashes with police as demonstrators voiced their demands against ongoing violence in Gaza.

Workers in Italy joined a general strike on Friday, not for better pay or conditions, but in solidarity with the people of Gaza. Large crowds took to the streets of multiple cities amid a growing wave of protest across Europe at Israel's bombardment and blockade of the Gaza Strip.

Italy's Interior Ministry reports up to 400,000 protesters across 29 locations, while trade unions claim the turnout was four times higher. The protests intensified following an Israeli military operation against a humanitarian flotilla aimed at delivering aid to Gaza, where famine conditions have been confirmed by UN experts.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed criticism of the protests, arguing they disrupt normal life and do not aid the Palestinian cause, while her deputy labelled the strike illegal. Nevertheless, demonstrators chanted slogans like Stop the Massacre and large numbers rallied in cities like Milan and Bologna, even as clashes occurred with police.

The atmosphere was particularly charged in Rome, with one professor stating a need for urgent governmental action regarding Gaza. As protestors paraded, a section briefly occupied a major motorway, expressing their frustrations vocally and visually through Palestinian flags and flares.

Amidst the protests, political leaders like opposition head Elly Schlein criticized Meloni's government for its silence on Israel's actions and the humanitarian situation in Gaza. As pressure mounts, Meloni has faced growing dissent from citizens and within her government regarding their approach to the persistent crisis in the region.