19 Apr 2018 | 12:14 AM UTC
Italy: Protests in Rome, Milan, Florence April 19-20
Protests in Rome, Milan, and Florence April 19-20 over recent US-led intervention in Syria; heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions expected
Event
Demonstrations are planned in several Italian cities on Thursday, April 19, and Friday, April 20, over the recent US-led military strikes in Syria. On Thursday, the Young Communist Front group is slated to hold a protest at Piazza Barberini in Rome from 14:00 and 19:00 (local time), with around 100 people expected to participate. On Thursday in Milan, a trade union has planned a small demonstration at Piazza Cavour from 16:00 to 18:00, with some 30 participants expected. On Thursday in Florence, around 100 people are expected to participate in a protest near the US Consulate General from 18:00 to 19:30.
Additionally, the Forza Nuova party will stage a related protest in Rome - likely attracting some 150 demonstrators - between 14:00 and 19:00 at Piazza Barberini. A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are expected near all protests. Additional related demonstrations are possible in the coming days.
Context
The United States, United Kingdom, and France launched joint strikes targeting the Syrian regime in the early hours of April 14 in response to the alleged chemical attack carried out by the Syrian government in Douma on April 7. The suspected chemical attack killed at least 70 people and wounded hundreds of others. Syria and Russia have denied that chemical weapons were used.
Advice
Individuals in Rome, Milan, and Florence are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all related demonstrations and gatherings as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
