by InTrieste
Photography: Erin McKinney
A strike and protest organized by the USB trade union on Monday morning disrupted operations at the Port of Trieste as demonstrators called for an end to the war in Gaza.
The demonstration drew hundreds of participants, including workers, families, and students. While the main march proceeded peacefully toward Campo Marzio, police clashed with about 200 protesters who remained in front of the port around 1 p.m.
Chants of “Free Palestine” and banners denouncing war, genocide, and militarization were visible throughout the protest. Truck traffic at Gate 4 of the port slowed before being redirected. “The protest was deliberately focused on the city’s productive and logistical heart,” said Sasha Colautti of the USB’s national executive committee.
Public transportation services continued to run, and participation by railway workers was limited. Teachers, however, were among the most active in joining the strike. Many schools in the region reported significantly reduced attendance. At Trieste’s Carducci Dante High School, principal Carmela Testa invited students to attend classes and debate the conflict. Many declined, and their absences were later deemed justified.
The demonstration also drew public figures, including Italian singer Elisa, who appeared with a Palestinian flag draped over her shoulders.
