Italy's national aviation authority has issued a firm condemnation after pro-Palestinian activists blocked passengers from boarding a flight to Israel at Milan's Malpensa Airport, causing significant disruption.
Protesters Halt Boarding in Airport Gate Area
The incident occurred on January 4, 2026. Activists, described by the ENAC authority as pro-Palestinian protesters, locked hands at the gate area, physically preventing travellers from passing the desk to board their flight to Tel Aviv. Video footage posted by ENAC shows scuffles breaking out as some passengers attempted to push through the human barrier.
Official Condemnation and High-Level Diplomacy
Pierluigi Di Palma, the president of ENAC, personally conveyed the agency's strong disapproval during a meeting he requested with Israel's ambassador to Italy, Jonathan Peled. The meeting took place at ENAC's headquarters, underscoring the seriousness with which Italian officials viewed the event.
ENAC labelled the protest as "particularly serious" and stated it contravened fundamental principles of aviation safety, neutrality, and the right to free mobility for all citizens. The authority has launched an investigation to identify those responsible and vowed to implement measures to prevent any repeat occurrences.
Operational Impact and Broader Repercussions
The direct consequence of the protest was a two-hour delay in the aircraft's takeoff. According to Italian media reports, the individuals involved were themselves waiting to board a separate flight to Morocco from a neighbouring gate.
In his discussion with Ambassador Peled, Di Palma reaffirmed Italy's "non-negotiable commitment" to ensuring all passengers can move freely and safely within Italian airports. He emphasised that Italy remains a country that firmly rejects all forms of hatred and discrimination, describing air transport as a vital meeting place for different peoples and cultures.
ENAC reported that Ambassador Peled expressed appreciation for the swift condemnation and stated he hoped prevention measures would be strengthened to ensure such events are not repeated.
