Italy: Protests scheduled in Milan January 6

Event

According to the US Consulate General in Milan, pro-Iran/anti-war activists have called for a protest in Milan on Monday, January 6, following the killing of Iranian Major General Qasem Soleimani by a US drone strike in Baghdad on Friday, January 3. Participants reportedly plan to gather from 17:00 to 20:00 at Via Moscova and Via Turati, located 50 m (0.03 mi) from the US Consulate.

A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are to be expected in the area over the coming hours as vehicular and pedestrians traffic restrictions may be implemented.

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 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. The situation remains fluid.

Advice

Individuals in Milan are advised to monitor developments, avoid all protests and demonstrations, prepare for resultant disruptions to transportation, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.