by EH
Municipal administrations across Italy participated on Saturday in a nationwide initiative aimed at commemorating the civilian victims of the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The campaign, titled “50,000 Shrouds for Gaza,” was organized by a group of Italian academics and centered on the symbolic display of white sheets on balconies, windows, and public buildings throughout the country.
The gesture, organizers said, was meant to serve as a visual reminder of the scale of the humanitarian crisis and to call for an end to the violence.
In Rome, a white sheet was hung from the balcony of City Hall on Capitoline Hill. The administration, led by Mayor Roberto Gualtieri, described the act as “a symbol of mourning and profound solidarity in the face of a humanitarian tragedy that worsens every day.”
In a public statement, the Rome city government expressed solidarity with “the innocent victims of Gaza” and reaffirmed its commitment to peace, human rights, and the dignity of all people. It also called for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, and the resumption of diplomatic efforts toward a two-state solution.
Milan joined the initiative as well, with a sheet displayed at Palazzo Marino, the seat of city government. Mayor Giuseppe Sala issued a strong statement urging international action. “What is happening in Gaza is intolerable, and all our consciences must rebel,” Sala said. “Everyone must do their part.”
Florence participated by draping a white sheet from the historic Palazzo Vecchio. Mayor Sara Funaro posted a message on social media describing the act as a symbolic plea for a ceasefire, access to humanitarian aid, and a path toward lasting peace.
“The actions of the Netanyahu government cannot leave anyone indifferent,” Funaro wrote. “Our city will always be on the side of peace, rights, and human dignity.”
In Bari, the southern Adriatic port city, Mayor Vito Leccese called the situation in Gaza “a genocide” and urged adherence to international law. “The horror that is taking place in Gaza is there for all to see,” Leccese said. “It is unacceptable. The time has come to take a stand.”
The campaign has garnered attention across the country, with over 90 lorries reportedly delivering white sheets for distribution and use in towns and cities participating in the demonstration.
While the initiative has received support from various local governments, it has also sparked debate over the tone and terminology used by some officials, reflecting broader divisions in Europe over the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Italy’s national government has maintained diplomatic relations with both Israel and the Palestinian Authority, and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has called for de-escalation and protection of civilians, without directly aligning with municipal statements like those issued over the weekend.
The “50,000 Shrouds for Gaza” campaign is expected to continue in the coming days, with organizers hoping to maintain attention on the civilian toll of the conflict and push for renewed international engagement in the region.
