Clashes erupt across Italy as pro-Palestinian strikes demand action on Gaza

Clashes erupted across Italy on Monday as thousands of people joined nationwide demonstrations organised by trade unions to show solidarity with Palestinians, as per reports. The largest gatherings were reportedly seen in Milan and Rome, with tensions flaring near Milan’s central station where around 60 police officers were said to have been injured.

Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who has faced criticism from political rivals over her stance on the Gaza conflict, reportedly condemned the violence in Milan, calling the incidents shameful. While Meloni has recently voiced stronger criticism of Israel’s military actions in Gaza, she has not reportedly taken the step of formally recognising a Palestinian state.

Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron announced what he described as a necessary decision to recognise Palestinian statehood, reportedly framing it as the start of a broader political process aimed at achieving peace and security. 

This move follows similar decisions by the UK, Canada, and Australia and is said to have support from Belgium, Malta, and Luxembourg. However, reports indicate that two other major European G7 members Italy and Germany have yet to adopt such a stance.