• Massive protests erupt across Italy in support of the Gaza aid flotilla.
• A general strike is called, affecting transportation in major cities.
• Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni criticizes the flotilla and the general strike.
• Solidarity demonstrations occur in over a hundred cities nationwide.

Tens of thousands of Italians participated in a nationwide general strike on Friday, protesting in support of the Global Sumud Flotilla aimed at delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza, which had been intercepted by Israeli forces. The strike was organized by multiple unions, including the CGIL, with demonstrations spreading across more than 100 cities, from Rome to Milan and Torino. Protesters held banners expressing solidarity with the Palestinian cause and calling for an end to what they described as genocide, according to Reuters and The Local.

In Rome alone, police reported around 10,000 participants marching from the Colosseum through the city, chanting against the government's stance on Israel and calling for greater humanitarian action. Demonstrators in other cities like Milan and Florence also occupied railway lines, leading to significant disruptions in train services. "Today it is the Colosseum, tomorrow it is the general strike," said Lorenzo Giardinetti, a city council member who participated, emphasizing the deep-seated public support for the flotilla's mission, according to TRT Global and Reuters.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has faced backlash for her government’s support of Israel, previously labeling the flotilla a "dangerous, irresponsible" endeavor. During the protests, supporters voiced their discontent, with one protester stating, "Instead of defending the victims, the government defends the aggressors," reflecting a sentiment against government policies perceived as supporting military action against civilians. Meloni's administration has suggested that the protests are merely a cover for extending weekend breaks, highlighting ongoing tensions between the government and protestors, according to Reuters and The Local.

Despite warnings from Italian authorities about the legality of the strike, which was said to not adhere to proper notice regulations, unions pressed on with their actions. Reports indicate that demonstrations might continue into the weekend, emphasizing the broad public support for humanitarian efforts related to the flotilla, which include aid from various international activists aiming to break Israel's blockade on Gaza, according to Reuters and TRT Global.