Italy: Demonstration scheduled in Milan January 11

Event

According to US diplomatic authorities, a demonstration is scheduled to be held at Piazza Duca d'Aosta in Milan on Saturday, January 11. Participants are expected to gather at the square at approximately 14:00 (local time) to denounce recent US military action in Iraq and consequent tensions with Iran.

A heightened security presence and associated transportation disruptions are anticipated in the vicinity of the protest.

Context

The US Department of Defense released a statement on January 3 claiming responsibility for an airstrike targeting and killing Qasem Soleimani, the commander of Iran's Quds Force, near Baghdad International Airport (BGW) the same day. According to the statement, Soleimani was "actively developing plans to attack American diplomats and service members in Iraq and throughout the region." Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, the deputy commander of Iraq's Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), was also killed in the strike along with six other individuals. Iranian forces have since retaliated by sending "tens" of missiles to two US bases in Iraq.

Advice

Individuals in Milan are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all demonstrations as a precaution, anticipate a heightened security presence and associated transportation disruptions, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.