Approximately two hundred pro-Palestine protesters are gathering in Piazza Ostiense in Rome, despite the rain, to show solidarity with the Palestinian people on the eve of the first anniversary of the Hamas attack in Israel. Activists from all over Italy are expected to join, and the entire square is surrounded by armored police and carabinieri. The police have deployed 1,500 personnel for security. Many Palestinian flags are present, and slogans like “Free Palestine” are being chanted. Stringent security measures are in place, including targeted checks at highways and train stations to prevent violent infiltrators from joining the demonstration.
The Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi has deemed the demonstration illegal but assured that it will be managed with balance by the police forces. Social media accounts belonging to anarchist groups and university collectives are being monitored. The Arab-Palestinian Democratic Union and Palestinian Youth have confirmed the Saturday afternoon rally at Piramide despite the ban. Police have already checked 1,600 individuals, with 19 brought to the police station for further evaluation. The aim is to prevent any violence during the protest.
Protesters are facing difficulties reaching the capital, with reports of police obstructing buses from reaching the demonstration point. Some protesters express frustration over the tight controls preventing their participation. Vice Premier and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani expressed concern about the risk of turning a legitimate protest into one promoting antisemitism or terrorism. The decision to halt the march has divided the Palestinian community and united the far left and far right in support of the mobilization.
Various groups, including student collectives, will participate in the protest. Many associations clarify that the demonstration is not in support of Hamas but seeks to defend the Palestinian people. Criticism of the ban comes from opposition parties, with some arguing that prohibiting demonstrations is counterproductive. The focus remains on advocating for Palestinian rights, condemning civilian casualties, and highlighting Israel’s perceived breaches of international law.
The protest is not limited to Rome, as similar actions are taking place in Cagliari against a security law and in solidarity with the Palestinian cause. The arrest of an Egyptian man for promoting terrorism serves as a reminder of the security concerns surrounding such events. Meanwhile, a Tunisian man in Turin was expelled due to suspected connections to ISIS. These incidents underscore the delicate balance between freedom of expression and public safety in light of escalating tensions in the region. Renowned chef and activist Rubio has pledged his support for the demonstration, urging broad participation to ensure the Palestinian voice is heard.
