In Italy, large-scale demonstrations are taking place against Israel’s actions in Gaza, with 100,000 people participating.

On September 22, 2025, large-scale protests against Israel’s actions in Gaza are taking place in Italy. Hundreds of thousands of people are gathering in different cities across the country, attracting the attention of local media.

Protests in many cities

Reuters reports that during morning gatherings at the port of Genoa, some demonstrators waved the Palestinian flag. According to RaiNews, at least 100,000 people in more than 75 Italian cities came out in support of the “Palestinian people.” The participants included union members and students. The protests have spread to a significant number of cities, such as Milan and Bologna, where the situation remains critical.

In Rome, one of the largest marches is taking place, with more than 50,000 people participating. Students have blocked the Faculty of Arts at the University of La Sapienza. In Venice, more than 20,000 demonstrators took to the streets, supporting Palestinian citizens.

Political reaction

During the actions in Turin and Naples, protesters burned posters of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. In Bolzano, protesters smeared red paint on the entrance to the town hall and wrote “22 worms,” referring to deputies who abstained during the vote on the resolution regarding Netanyahu.

Giorgia Meloni condemned the actions of the protesters, noting that they “will not change the situation in Gaza and may harm Italian society.” She pointed out that “violence and destruction will not improve the lives of people in Gaza, but ultimately Italian citizens will suffer from this damage.” Meloni expressed hope for a clear condemnation of the actions by the organizers and political parties.

Situation in Gaza

The situation in Gaza remains tense. On September 16, the Israel Defense Forces launched a ground offensive in the sector. Previously, the IDF had urged local residents to leave the city, and about 300,000 people have already moved south to “humanitarian zones.” On September 17, Israel announced the destruction of 25 “terrorist towers” and warned of continued strikes.

World reaction

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz noted that the main goal of the operation is to neutralize threats from Hamas and destroy their military infrastructure, which was the reason for the displacement of the civilian population.

French President Emmanuel Macron criticized Israel’s actions, stating that they undermine the country’s international image. Ahead of the annual session of the UN General Assembly, several countries, including Canada and the United Kingdom, confirmed their intentions to recognize the Palestinian state.