Flotilla, the CGIL (Italian General Confederation of Labour) announced this evening a nationwide general strike for all public and private sectors for the entire day of Friday, October 3rd.
The attack on civilian vessels carrying Italian citizens represents an extremely serious matter. It is a blow to the very constitutional order that impedes humanitarian action and solidarity with the Palestinian population, subjected by the Israeli government to a veritable genocide. It is a direct attack on the safety and security of the workers and volunteers on board. It is not only a crime against defenseless people, but it is also serious that the Italian government has abandoned Italian workers in open international waters, violating our constitutional principles.
During the general strike, the CGIL (Italian General Confederation of Labour) announced, "essential services will be guaranteed, as established by sector regulations."
"FIOM," a statement from the past few hours read, "will participate in the general strike and will be on the streets of every city to support the Global Sumud Flotilla and stop the genocide of the Palestinian people. The Israeli army's attack on dozens of civilian vessels engaged in solidarity and humanitarian action towards the people of the Gaza Strip is extremely serious and unprecedented. As always, metalworkers are on the front lines in the fight against war, for humanity, for dignity, for solidarity, and for the restoration of international law. We call on the Italian government to intervene to defend the constitutional rights of its citizens engaged in humanitarian action, sanction the Netanyahu government, block trade and military agreements with Israel, and formally recognize the State of Palestine."
Meanwhile, throughout Italy, since this evening, when news broke of Israel's halt to the Flotilla, demonstrations have been underway, bringing thousands of people to the streets. In Naples, at 8:30 PM, protesters blocked the central station, bringing rail traffic to a standstill. Traffic resumed shortly before 11:00 PM following the intervention of law enforcement.
Upon hearing the news of the Israeli Navy's blockade of the Global Sumud Flotilla, thousands of people took to the streets to demonstrate their solidarity with the detained crews. In Rome, Milan, Turin, Naples, Genoa, Florence, and many other cities, activists, students, associations, unions, and citizens quickly gathered via chat rooms and social media. A river of people waving Palestinian flags.