Disorderly situations: Pro-Palestine rally in Rome escalates further
Crowds assemble in Rome to advocate for the Palestinian community, leading to disorderly scenes. Unapproved protest actions lead to chaos, resulting in the hurl of street signs, bottles, and stones towards law enforcement. Authorities retaliate with the deployment of tear gas. Alternatively, tranquility remains elsewhere.
On the eve of the commemoration of the Hamas tragic event in Israel, occurring on October 7, 2023, thousands gathered at the heart of Rome. Masked and clad in black, these protesters then hurled bottles, rocks, and even traffic signs towards security personnel. The security forces reacted by employing tear gas and water cannons in response.
The event in Rome was not recognized by Italian authorities due to concerns over security and the perceived celebratory nature of the protest that could be seen as condoning the Hamas horrific event of October 7. Previously, Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi warned of heightened security alert, anticipating potential attacks in the lead-up to the anniversary.
Protests in London as well
During a rally near the Colosseum, demonstrators displayed banners and waved Palestinian flags, chanting slogans such as "Free Palestine" and "Free Lebanon". Meanwhile, a speaker announced through a megaphone that "The revolution began on October 7." The area was heavily fortified, with a helicopter hovering overhead.
Simultaneously, tens of thousands of people marched in London for a pro-Palestinian demonstration, moving through the city streets as reported by the British news agency PA. Images depicted people waving Palestinian and Lebanese flags. There was also a smaller counter-demonstration supporting Israel. By midday, 15 arrests had been made, as reported by the police.
In Edinburgh, Scotland, the previous year, on October 7, 2023, Palestinian supporters took to the streets, calling for an immediate ceasefire and penalties against Israel, according to PA. At that time, Islamic Hamas and other extremist groups, based in Gaza, launched assaults on Israel, resulting in approximately 1,200 fatalities and the abduction of about 240 individuals into the Gaza Strip.
The Italian government, through the Commission, expressed their concerns about the unauthorized protests in Rome, citing security risks and potential celebration of the Hamas tragic event. Following the warning from Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi, the Commission increased security measures in anticipation of potential attacks.
In response to the reports of escalating violence during the pro-Palestinian demonstrations in London, The Commission in the UK has issued a statement condemning any acts of violence and emphasizing the importance of peaceful protest.
