Massive protests erupted in parts of Italy on Monday as tens of thousands of demonstrators took to the streets to “denounce the genocide in Gaza.” The protests followed Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s statement that Italy will not recognise Palestine at this time.
The demonstrations coincided with preparations by France and other countries at the UN General Assembly in New York to formally recognise a Palestinian state, following the UK, Australia, and Canada, which had recognised Palestine on Sunday.
My great Italian citizenry have risen up, turning protests to general strikes against Israel's genocide in Palestine.
— Rula Jebreal (@rulajebreal) September 22, 2025
Horrified by Meloni government’s complicity and betrayal of Italy’s anti-fascist Constitution,
Claiming the universal promise of “Never again” #VivaL’Italia pic.twitter.com/1wxjOdRLCh
Unverified social media reports suggested that over 60 police officers were injured during clashes with protesters.
Protests Across Major Cities
The demonstrations involved blockades, strikes, and marches, with hundreds clashing with local police in Milan. Social media videos showed large crowds in multiple cities, raising banners and chanting slogans.
In Rome, around 20,000 people gathered outside the main Termini train station, according to local police. Many were students, waving Palestinian flags and shouting “Free Palestine!” Some marched past the Colosseum, carrying a giant banner that read, “Against Genocide. Let’s block everything."
In Milan, organisers claimed 50,000 protesters attended. Some demonstrators burned a US flag, according to AFP reports. Clashes broke out at the central train station, with police using teargas and protesters throwing projectiles and breaking windows.
Bologna saw over 10,000 protesters, with some blocking a motorway before being dispersed with water cannons.
Other cities including Turin, Florence, Naples, and Sicily also witnessed protests. In Genoa and Livorno, dock workers blocked port entrances, according to Italian media.
The USB union organised a 24-hour national strike, demanding that the government cut ties with Israel in solidarity with Palestinians.
Local public transport was disrupted in Rome, including buses and metro services, while national train operators warned of delays and cancellations.
Italy’s Government Response
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government, ideologically aligned with US President Donald Trump, condemned Israel’s ongoing assault on Gaza.
Officials noted that Italy has not sold weapons to Israel since the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023.
However, the government also stated it will not recognise a Palestinian state for now and expressed hesitation regarding the European Union’s proposed trade sanctions on Israel.