Italy: Pro-Palestinian protest activity and clashes reported in vicinity of Piazzale Ostiense in Rome Oct. 5

Authorities will almost certainly maintain a heightened security presence in the vicinity of Piazzale Ostiense in Rome over the coming hours after pro-Palestinian protesters engaged in clashes with police officers in the area on Oct. 5. The clashes injured at least 30 law enforcement officers and at least three young people. Some demonstrators threw various objects, including bottles and stones, at police officers, who responded by using tear gas and water cannon in an attempt to disperse the protesters. At least five demonstrators were arrested in connection with the clashes, which occurred after several thousand pro-Palestinian protesters gathered at the site for a protest march despite authorities' ban on the planned demonstration and implementation of an associated security cordon that blocked a local road. Following the clashes, some protesters marched along Viale di Porta Ardeatina and Viale Marco Polo. Riot police were deployed in the vicinity of the march, and the situation has reportedly begun to normalize as of the evening hours.

Lingering transport and business disruptions will likely affect locations subject to protest activity and increased security. Further protest activity may materialize on short notice and prompt authorities to implement additional security-related restrictions.