In Rome, a solidarity demonstration for Gaza turned tumultuous as several hundred protesters broke away from the mostly peaceful gathering and confronted law enforcement on Saturday, according to reports from the Italian police. The protests, which have been ongoing for four days, reflect growing discontent in Italy as citizens call on Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s administration to adopt a firmer stance against Israel amid its military actions in Gaza.
Escalating tensions in the capital
As hundreds of thousands of demonstrators marched through the streets of the Italian capital, tensions escalated, leading to confrontations with police. Officers were compelled to use tear gas and water cannons in response to the violence, which included protesters setting vehicles and trash bins ablaze.
“A heartfelt thank you to the Law Enforcement Agencies for the extraordinary work carried out in these complex days, despite having had to face attacks, object throwing, and organized attempts at confrontation,” Meloni expressed in a social media update.
Background of the protests
The unrest began following Israel’s interception of the pro-Palestinian Global Sumud Flotilla, a convoy of 41 boats aiming to deliver humanitarian aid to the besieged Gaza Strip. In August, a United Nations-backed organization declared a man-made famine in the region, a claim that Israel has since disputed.
As the situation continues to evolve, delegations from both Israel and the Hamas militant group are anticipated to commence truce discussions in Egypt on Monday, highlighting the deepening crisis and the urgent need for diplomatic resolutions.