Ravenna Dockworkers Block Weapon Shipment to Israel Amid European Protest Against Gaza Conflict

September 19, 2025
Ravenna Dockworkers Block Weapon Shipment to Israel Amid European Protest Against Gaza Conflict
  • Dockworkers at the Port of Ravenna in Italy successfully prevented two trucks, believed to be carrying weapons and explosives destined for Israel, from entering the port, acting on directives from local authorities.

  • This action was part of a broader protest by dockworkers across Europe, including France, Sweden, and Greece, against arms shipments to Israel amid the ongoing Gaza conflict.

  • Local officials in Ravenna, supported by the port's ownership, which includes municipal, provincial, and regional authorities, coordinated to block the shipment, citing concerns over the transit of explosives from other countries due to regulatory gaps.

  • The decision to block the shipment was driven by growing domestic discontent with Israel's military actions in Gaza, with the mayor emphasizing that the explosives originated from another country and criticizing bureaucratic loopholes.

  • Meanwhile, Israel's military retaliation in Gaza has resulted in over 65,000 fatalities, primarily civilians, according to Gaza's health ministry and UN data, leading to international outrage and a humanitarian crisis.

  • Italian Prime Minister Meloni has expressed concern over Israel's plans to take control of Gaza City amidst the ongoing conflict.

  • Italy's largest trade union, CGIL, is organizing a national half-day strike and marches to pressure the government to cease all military and commercial agreements with Israel, reflecting organized labor's opposition.

  • Regional leaders in Emilia-Romagna and Ravenna have publicly stated that they stand with innocent victims rather than supporting criminal governments or terrorist organizations.

  • The Ravenna city administration, controlled by the Democratic Party, made the decision to block the shipment, opposing the national government led by Prime Minister Meloni.

  • The Israeli offensive has led to widespread international outrage and a humanitarian crisis, including famine conditions declared by the UN.

  • Italy's national government has not publicly commented on the decision to block the explosives shipment.

  • This incident is part of a wider movement among European dockworkers protesting arms shipments to Israel, with similar actions in France, Sweden, and Greece.

Summary based on 3 sources


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Italian port blocks explosives shipment to Israel over Gaza offensive

Sun Media Corporation Sdn. Bhd. • Sep 19, 2025

Italian port blocks explosives shipment to Israel over Gaza offensive

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