Italy paralyzed by nationwide strike over Gaza flotilla interception

Hundreds of thousands of people across Italy participated in a nationwide general strike on Friday, protesting Israel's interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla, an aid convoy attempting to reach Gaza.

4 oct 2025 - 00:06 • 4 min read

The mobilization was in "defense of the flotilla," which was carrying 40 Italians among its activists, and to "stop the genocide," according to the CGIL (Italian General Confederation of Labour). The union reported that over two million people attended Friday's protests, with an additional massive demonstration planned for Rome on Saturday.

Widespread Disruption and Dissent

The strike led to significant disruptions throughout the country. Rail, air, metro, and bus transport were halted, and many schools remained closed. Protesters blocked highways near Pisa, Pescara, Bologna, and Milan, and access to the port of Livorno was shut down.

In Milan, police reported that over 80,000 people participated in demonstrations, waving Palestinian flags and carrying a large banner that read, "Free Palestine, Stop the War Machine." CGIL leader Maurizio Landini stated, "This is not just any strike. We're here today to defend brotherhood among individuals, among peoples, to put humanity back at the centre, to say no to genocide, to a policy of rearmament."

Tensions and clashes with law enforcement were reported in several cities. In Milan, protesters occupied the eastern ring road, leading to police using water cannons and tear gas. In Bologna, a procession blocked the A14 highway, resulting in further scuffles, with reports of police injuries from the previous evening. A young woman in Bologna was hospitalized and reportedly risked losing an eye due to injuries sustained from a tear gas canister.

In Pisa, activists occupied the runway of the Galilei airport for about an hour, disrupting air traffic. There were also reports of journalists being attacked during protests in Trieste and Pisa.

Government Response and International Reaction

The Italian government criticized the strike. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni suggested that some participants were using the protests as an excuse for an extended weekend. The Ministry of Transport and Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini announced potential sanctions for workers striking without proper notice, with fines of up to 50,000 euros.

Despite the government's stance, the CGIL described the mobilization as a success, with an estimated national strike participation rate of around 60%. The union emphasized the "extraordinary and unprecedented participation of young people."

As the protests unfolded, Italy's foreign ministry announced that Israel had released four Italian parliamentarians who were detained from the flotilla. The two members of parliament and two members of the European Parliament were expected to return to Rome on Friday.

The protests in Italy were part of a wider international outcry. Demonstrations in solidarity with the flotilla, which included climate activist Greta Thunberg and several politicians, also occurred in Barcelona, where about 15,000 people marched, and are expected to continue across continents.

Flotilla Interception and Detentions

The Global Sumud Flotilla organizers stated that Israeli naval forces had "illegally intercepted all 42 of our vessels," detaining over 470 activists and personnel, including journalists from various international outlets. Israel's military stated its forces intercepted the flotilla to breach its "maritime security blockade" and prevent what it described as a "large-scale incursion attempt." Rights groups and some international officials have questioned the legality of Israel's actions.

In Israel, protesters also gathered, blocking a route into Gaza and demanding that aid seized from the flotilla be allowed into the Palestinian territory. These demonstrators included Israeli peace activists who called for an end to the blockade of Gaza and for aid to reach the strip through various means.

Football Protest

Separately, pro-Palestinian protesters approached the training center of the Italian national football team on Friday, calling for the cancellation of their upcoming World Cup qualifier against Israel, scheduled for October 14 in Udine. Protesters held a banner and voiced their opposition to Israel's participation in international matches due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The Italian Football Coaches' Association had previously pushed for Israel's suspension from international competitions.