Thousands of pro-Palestinian activists poured into the streets of Bologna on Friday, condemning Israel’s ongoing assault on Gaza and denouncing the decision to host Maccabi Tel Aviv for a EuroLeague game.

The demonstrators, united under the call to suspend Israel from all international sporting platforms, marched through the city with powerful chants and banners demanding justice for Palestine.

The protest—one of the largest pro-Palestinian mobilizations in the city this year—was met with a heavy police presence. Tensions escalated when Italian security forces attempted to block parts of the march, prompting clashes. Local reports said police fired tear gas at protesters after fireworks were launched toward officers.

Despite the confrontations, authorities confirmed that the clashes occurred well away from the arena, where Italy had deployed an extensive security perimeter due to sensitivities surrounding the Israeli team’s presence. Critics argued that the extraordinary protection afforded to Maccabi Tel Aviv underscored Europe’s double standards: shielding Israeli institutions while remaining silent on Gaza’s devastation.

Protesters also voiced frustration with Bologna’s mayor, who has expressed criticism of Israel in the past but nevertheless permitted the match to proceed. Many accused the city’s leadership of inconsistency and moral compromise at a time when Palestinians continue to endure brutal aggression.

Demonstrators reiterated that sporting events cannot be detached from global realities, insisting that Israel’s participation in European competitions amounts to normalization while Palestinians are denied even basic human rights.

Friday’s march reflects a growing wave of solidarity across Europe, where activists continue to challenge institutions they see as complicit in Israel’s actions and demand accountability from governments, leagues, and public officials. (ILKHA)