The Latest Breaking News from Giorgia Meloni

Protesters across Europe Thursday railed at Israel's interception of a flotilla carrying aid for Gaza's besieged Palestinians, urging greater sanctions from European governments in response.

Israel said on Thursday it will deport pro-Palestinian activists on an aid flotilla intercepted at sea as they headed towards Gaza, adding that none of the vessels had successfully breached its maritime blockade.

Activists on board the 40-plus boat aid flotilla en route to the Strip told Euronews they are attempting to challenge and increase pressure on Israel to end its maritime blockade.

Italy's lower house has backed a bill to reinstate a national holiday on 4 October in honour of St Francis of Assisi, which the government of Giorgia Meloni said was important to the nation's identity.

The announcements by Rome and Madrid to deploy navy vessels to assist and protect the flotilla come after activists reported several attacks on its ships overnight on Tuesday.

Country-wide protests in Italy have illustrated the depth of public sentiment against Israel’s war in Gaza. Giorgia Meloni’s position has shifted on the issue, and she announced Italy would recognise the state if Israeli hostages are freed and Hamas is out of the government

Protesters in Italy calling for solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza clashed with police in Milan on Monday (23 September).

Schools and stations closed and ports blocked in one of Europe’s biggest demonstrations opposing Israel’s offensive

Tens of thousands of people protested on Monday across Italy as part of a day of action to "denounce the genocide in Gaza", which included transport strikes and port blockades.