Rome Protests Against Flotilla Thousands Mobilize from Colosseum in Massive March
Fiery Thursday in Italy: Student Protests Ignite Over Global Sumud Flotilla Incident
Massive Demonstrations Erupt Across Universities
Italy witnessed a day of widespread protests in schools and universities following the interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla by the Israeli Navy. From north to south, educational institutions saw occupations, with plans for marches and assemblies continuing into Friday’s scheduled general strike.
Metro Stations Closed Due to Security Concerns
The Termini and Ostiense metro stations were shut down as a precautionary measure due to public order concerns, according to local authorities. This action underscores the heightened tensions in the capital amid large demonstrations.
Pro-Palestinian Protest Draws Thousands in Rome
With more than 10,000 participants reportedly joining the pro-Palestinian march in Rome, authorities noted no public order issues despite the massive turnout. The demonstration began at the Colosseum and is set to conclude at Piramide, following a detailed route through the city.
Large Turnout at the Colosseum
At the Colosseum, over 2,000 individuals gathered, voicing their concerns over the Israeli military operation. As part of a three-day protest, the initial spontaneous display of dissent continues tonight with a procession and culminates in a national demonstration in Rome on Saturday.
Expected Large Crowds and Meticulous March Routes
The march, set for Thursday evening, expected at least 10,000 attendees. Organizers include Palestinian youth and Global Sumud Flotilla supporters, with numerous unions and social groups joining the cause. The march proceeds from the Colosseum to Porta San Paolo, covering key streets in central Rome.
Palestinian Flag Unfurls Near Vatican Grounds
A large Palestinian flag caught the attention of international journalists as it waved prominently from an Egyptian embassy window near the Vatican. This gesture comes amidst heightened visibility of pro-Palestinian sentiments in the city.
Violence Erupts at Caravillani School
An altercation involving students and a professor unfolded at Caravillani High School after a pro-Palestine assembly. Eyewitnesses reported physical aggression during recess, leading to police intervention and identification of several individuals. Alleged altercations have prompted further investigation.
Gualtieri Voices Support for Flotilla Volunteers
Rome’s Mayor, Roberto Gualtieri, expressed solidarity with detained Flotilla volunteers during his speech at the Festival of Cities 2025. Gualtieri condemned their illegal detention during what he described as a peaceful mission in international waters.
Sapienza University Students Lead Colosseum Rally
Classes at Sapienza’s Faculty of Letters were canceled as students participated in blockades, chanting for a free Palestine. Activists plan to join the housing rights demonstration at the Capitol before proceeding to the Colosseum protest.
Housing Rights Protest at Capitoline Hill
Housing rights advocates are to demonstrate at the Capitol, demanding a halt to evictions affecting families in occupied structures. University students will join the protest, proceeding to the pro-Palestinian sit-in scheduled for the evening.
Protestors Converge for Colosseum March
Thousands are anticipated at the pro-Palestinian rally, departing the Colosseum in the late afternoon. Organized by student and activist groups, the event has been coordinated with local authorities.
Three Days of Continued Activism in Rome
Under the rallying cry of resistance, activists are called to mobilize in response to the Global Sumud Flotilla incident. A series of protests are planned, culminating in Saturday’s national demonstration for Palestine, beginning at Porta San Paolo.
Occupational Protest at Sapienza’s Faculty of Letters
Student group ‘Cambiare Rotta’ initiated a blockade at Sapienza University’s Faculty of Letters. They closed the entrances early morning, showing solidarity with the Flotilla. Authorities monitor the situation closely.
Palestinian Flag Flies at Piazza della Repubblica
Demonstrations continued until midnight at Piazza della Repubblica, with protestors moving towards Piazza dei Cinquecento. Graffiti supporting Gaza appeared on nearby businesses, highlighting the sustained activism throughout the city.
