Over 2 Million Italians Strike Nationwide Over Gaza Flotilla Detention

More than two million Italians participated in a one-day general strike and rallies across over 100 cities to protest Israel's interception of the Gaza-bound Global Sumud Flotilla and to support Palestinians in Gaza. The strike, organized by major unions including the Italian General Confederation of Labor (CGIL), caused widespread disruption in transportation, schools, and ports. Demonstrators carried Palestinian flags and chanted anti-Israel slogans, with some clashes occurring in cities like Milan and Naples where police used smoke bombs and tear gas. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned the strike as politically motivated and harmful to Italians, while critics and opposition leaders called for breaking the blockade and recognizing Palestinian statehood. The protests included diverse participants, from students to elderly people, and featured demands such as halting Israel's blockade and an end to what some described as genocide. The demonstrations reflected broad public anger over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the Italian government's stance on the issue.