On Monday in Italy, a nationwide general strike in support of Gaza and in protest against the Israeli attack on the “Global Sumud Flotilla” brought much of the country to a standstill. Several key sectors, including transportation, education, and logistics, were affected by the strike. The protest had been jointly organized by labor unions and social organizations.
With the slogan “Stop Everything,” thousands of people took to the streets in Rome, Milan, Naples, and several other cities. Protesters raised their voices against the ongoing violence in Gaza and chanted strongly in support of Palestine. People carried Palestinian flags, and the crowds echoed with chants of “Free Palestine.
In the capital city of Rome, protesters demanded that the Italian government end its alleged “collusion” with Israel. Demonstrators said that governments are increasing spending on weapons while neglecting essential sectors such as healthcare and education.
The impact of the strike was clearly visible in the daily lives of ordinary people. Rome’s Metro Line C and Naples’ Line 1 were affected, while several suburban train services in Milan were suspended. Workers at the Port of Livorno also took part in the protest demonstrations.
Saif Abu Kishk, a Spanish-Palestinian activist who took part in the protest, said that some boats of the flotilla were seized in the recent attack, but despite this, the activists’ morale remains unbroken. He stated that the campaign to reach Gaza and show solidarity with its people will continue.
Abu Kishk described the Israeli action as a violation of international and maritime law. He said that such attacks continue because of the silence and support of Western countries. He urged people to keep raising their voices in support of Gaza.
Italian protester Andrea Ziccaro said that the attack on the flotilla is an extremely dangerous sign. He alleged that the world is moving toward a “war economy,” where weapons are being given more importance than human needs.
Another protester, Natalia Mancini, said that the attack on the flotilla was “yet another humiliation,” which has raised questions about the claims of Western democracy.
It was reported that the “Global Sumud Flotilla” had begun its journey from the Turkish port of Marmaris with 54 boats, aiming to break the blockade of Gaza. On Monday, the Israeli navy began intercepting these boats in international waters and detained several activists.
Earlier, on April 29, a similar flotilla was also attacked near the island of Crete. That mission included 345 people from 39 countries. During the incident, 21 boats were seized and around 175 activists were detained.