Thousands Protest Sicily Plans for World’s Longest Suspension Bridge

In New York, over 500 residents, along with elected officials and environmental groups, protested against Governor Kathy Hochul's efforts to revive three fracked gas pipeline projects, including two previously denied, under pressure from President Trump. The pipelines, such as the Williams NESE project, are criticized for threatening clean water, frontline communities, and violating state climate laws, while also potentially raising utility bills significantly. Meanwhile, in Sicily, approximately 10,000 people marched in Messina to oppose a 13.5-billion-euro government plan to build the Strait of Messina Bridge, which would become the world's longest suspension bridge. Protesters cited concerns about the bridge's scale, earthquake risks, environmental damage, mafia involvement, and the expropriation of about 500 families. Transport Minister Matteo Salvini argued the project would generate substantial jobs and economic growth in southern Italy, but opponents remain unconvinced and vow legal resistance. The bridge project recently passed a key government approval stage, with preliminary work expected to begin soon pending judicial clearance, while officials emphasize anti-mafia measures and defense-related classifications.