On June 7, 2025, an estimated 300,000 people marched through Rome in a massive, peaceful protest against the war in Gaza, organised by Italy’s opposition parties. The rally, stretching from Piazza Vittorio to San Giovanni, denounced the Italian government’s alleged complicity in the conflict and called for an immediate ceasefire.
Protesters waved Palestinian flags and held signs reading “Stop the massacre, stop complicity!” and “Free Palestine.” Speakers, including Democratic Party leader Elly Schlein, condemned the violence and criticised Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s far-right government for its muted response. “This is an enormous popular response for peace,” Schlein said, advocating for hostage release, humanitarian aid, and recognition of Palestine.
“There is another Italy that doesn’t remain silent as the Meloni government does.”
Protesters in Italy’s Rome march to demand an end to Israel’s war on Gaza.
— in pictures https://t.co/3aw9SS0hYE pic.twitter.com/6DRb5jWA9x
— Al Jazeera English (@AJEnglish) June 8, 2025Five Star Movement leader Giuseppe Conte rejected accusations of antisemitism, stating, “We’re here to oppose genocide.” The Greens–Left Alliance also backed the march, amplifying demands for justice.
The protest reflects growing international concern over Gaza’s humanitarian crisis, with the United Nations warning of famine risks for 2.3 million Palestinians. In Italy, Meloni has faced pressure to condemn Israeli actions but has balanced criticism with an acknowledgement of Hamas’s role in initiating hostilities. In May 2025, she called Gaza’s situation “unjustifiable” but maintained diplomatic ties with Israel.
A staggering 300,000 people marched for Gaza in Rome!
The people of the world stand with Palestine.
It’s our corrupt governments that stand with lsraeI.
Thank you, Rome! 🇮🇹👏🏼 pic.twitter.com/YwntbcqIgx
— ADAM (@AdameMedia) June 8, 2025Protesters like Gabriella Branca, a 67-year-old lawyer from Genoa, voiced outrage: “The massacre of 60,000 people, including 20,000 children, is unbearable.” The diverse crowd from Italy aimed to send a global message of solidarity.
The Rome march mirrors protests worldwide, with millions rallying for Gaza. Organisers hope it inspires further action in Italy.
