In Italy, protesters entered Rome’s iconic Colosseum during widespread demonstrations across the country, as authorities arrested nine people nationwide amid tensions in several major cities. Department of Public Security said that the 371 people, including 110 minors and 69 foreign nationals, were taken to police stations for background checks. According to local media, a small group broke away from a larger march along Via Cavour in Rome and entered the ancient Flavian Amphitheatre. The demonstrators raised placards and chanted slogans before security personnel escorted them out, allowing the main march to continue. Thousands of people took part in protests across Rome, Florence, Turin and Milan, raising concerns over the rising cost of living, policies of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government and ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni praised law enforcement agencies for maintaining public order and safeguarding the right to peaceful protest. In a social media post, Ms Meloni thanked police personnel, Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi, prefects and questors for coordinating security arrangements. She said the right to demonstrate peacefully must be protected alongside citizens’ right to live safely in their cities.
The Embassy of India in Italy issued an advisory to Indian nationals across the country, to remain vigilant and avoid crowded areas amid the ongoing protests and demonstrations.
