Italy General Strike Over Gaza Flotilla Detentions

A general strike and mass demonstrations swept Italy in solidarity with the Global Sumud Flotilla after the Israeli navy intercepted vessels carrying aid to Gaza and detained more than 400 activists, including about 40 Italians and several lawmakers, with four Italian parliamentarians later reported released. The walkout, called by major unions CGIL and USB, drew tens of thousands—police estimated over 60,000 in Rome while organizers put Milan’s turnout above 100,000—and mobilized protests in Rome, Milan, Turin, Florence, Bologna and other cities. The strike caused widespread disruption to trains, public transport, schools and some domestic flights, with protesters blockading ports including Naples, Genoa and Livorno and occupying station tracks, leaving many services canceled or heavily delayed. CGIL leader Maurizio Landini framed the action as a protest against perceived complicity in a “genocide,” and the unions defended the strike as legitimate even after Italy’s strike watchdog declared it illegal for insufficient notice. The government condemned the strike—Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni criticized it and Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini warned of legal and personal consequences—and clashes with police and some acts of vandalism were reported.