Italian dockworkers have blocked an Israeli-owned container ship in Livorno, refusing to unload cargo in solidarity with Palestinians and the Global Sumud flotilla. The protest, lasting two days, forced the ship to depart without unloading. Similar actions have occurred in ports from Genoa to Taranto, as opposition to Israel's war in Gaza intensifies.
Thousands joined a general strike on Friday, called by several unions, closing schools and disrupting transport and healthcare. Spontaneous protests erupted after Israeli forces intercepted the flotilla and arrested activists, including Greta Thunberg. The Livorno incident marked the first time an Israeli ship carrying general merchandise was blocked.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has criticised Israel's actions as “disproportionate” and hinted at recognising a Palestinian state, but maintains a delicate balance as a staunch Israel ally. She described the flotilla as “dangerous and irresponsible” and accused protesters of taking “a long weekend disguised as a revolution.” Despite the protests, Meloni's Brothers of Italy party leads polls at about 30%, and her coalition won recent regional elections in Marche.
Political analyst Lorenzo Pregliasco noted that while public opinion largely supports Gaza, this has not translated into electoral shifts. He warned that the movement's leftwing identity risks alienating those horrified by the war but not aligned with pro-Palestinian militancy.
