A nationwide general strike took place on Monday in Italy in protest against rearmament policies and in support of the Palestinians in Gaza, reports Anadolu.

The strike was organized following a call by the USB union and other civil society groups under the slogan “We block everything”. health and education.

They also expressed opposition to Israel’s attacks on Gaza and support for the Global Sumud Flotilla, a civilian aid initiative that aims to reach the territory.

Protests were held in several cities, including Rome, where demonstrators gathered in Piazza Cinquecento.

Many participants carried Palestinian flags and demanded that the Italian government reduce or end what they call complicity with Israel.

Cries for a “free Palestine” were heard repeatedly during the protests.

Transport disruptions were reported across the country.

A metro line was suspended in Rome, while service on a metro line was suspended in Naples.

In Milan, several suburban rail lines were affected, while port workers in Livorno staged industrial action.

Protests also highlighted solidarity with activists involved in the “Sumud” flotilla.

Activist of Palestinian origin from Spain, Saif Abukeshek, previously detained during a naval incident with Israeli forces, took part in the rally in Rome.

He told Anadolu that the recent interventions against flotilla ships in international waters constitute a violation of international law and linked them to criticism of Italy’s arms trade policies.

A Another protester, Andrea Ziccaro, said the strike was aimed at opposing what she called the “war economy”, arguing that prioritizing military spending leads to the neglect of social services such as health and education.

Addingly, she added that the recent incidents with the flotilla revealed the “mask” of what she called so-called democracy.

Source: prizrenpost