Italy's Nationwide Strike in Solidarity with Gaza Sparks Major Disruptions

On September 22, 2025, Italy experienced a nationwide general strike organized by grassroots unions to protest Israel's military actions in Gaza and Italy's involvement in arms shipments to Israel. The 24-hour strike led to significant disruptions across multiple sectors, including public transportation, education, and port operations.

The strike was spearheaded by unions such as Unione Sindacale di Base (USB), Confederazione Unitaria di Base (CUB), Sindacato Generale di Base (SGB), and ADL. Major cities like Rome, Milan, and Bologna witnessed large-scale protests, some escalating into violent clashes with law enforcement.

In Rome, approximately 20,000 people gathered in front of the central station to protest the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. In Milan, violent clashes occurred between protesters and police at the central train station, resulting in injuries and arrests. Masked protesters attempted to breach the station, leading to confrontations with law enforcement. In Bologna, authorities used water cannons to disperse demonstrators blocking a highway. Dockworkers in Genoa and Livorno blocked port access to prevent arms shipments to Israel. Protesters, some waving Palestinian flags, aimed to prevent Italian ports from facilitating arms transfers to Israel.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned the violence associated with the protests, stating that such actions do not aid Gaza. Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi described the clashes in Milan as a deliberate attack on the police.

Despite assurances that Italy had blocked arms sales to Israel following the Gaza Strip invasion, Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto stated that exports continued under previously signed contracts. Italian law prohibits arms sales to countries involved in war or violating human rights. Statistics revealed that Italy exported 2.1 million euros in arms to Israel in the last quarter of 2023, with 1.3 million euros in December alone.

The strike highlighted internal dissent over Italy's stance on the Gaza conflict and its relations with Israel. The widespread participation across various sectors and cities underscores significant public sentiment in Italy regarding the Gaza conflict. The event also reflects the intersection of domestic politics and international issues, as well as the role of grassroots movements in influencing national policy.

Italy has a history of labor strikes and protests, often organized by grassroots unions to address both domestic and international issues. However, a nationwide strike of this magnitude, specifically targeting foreign policy and arms exports, is unprecedented in recent history. This event may set a precedent for future labor actions tied to international solidarity movements.

Italy's nationwide general strike in solidarity with Gaza underscores the profound impact of international conflicts on domestic affairs. The widespread participation and significant disruptions signal a strong public sentiment that may influence Italy's future foreign policy decisions regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.