Clashes at Udine pro-Palestinian march

A pro-Palestinian march in Udine ahead of Italy’s World Cup qualifier with Israel largely remained peaceful but ended in clashes between a minority of demonstrators and police, prompting a heavy security response across the city. Organizers and authorities gave differing estimates of turnout, with figures ranging from about 5,000 to 10,000 participants. The procession through the city centre featured chants of “Free Palestine” and banners urging FIFA to “Show Israel the red card,” and most marchers dispersed without incident.

Tensions rose near the stadium perimeter when a faction of protesters threw firecrackers and dismantled crowd-control barriers. Officers used water cannon and tear gas to repel attempts to breach restricted zones; reports described smoke and scuffles at key intersections as police lines fragmented at times. A journalist was reportedly injured and taken to hospital. Police presence was substantial, with more than 1,000 officers and army personnel deployed, supported by helicopters and drones, and concrete barriers, checkpoints and metal detectors erected to secure the stadium area.

Authorities kept demonstrators several kilometres from the Bluenergy/Friuli stadium, where measures inside the ground mirrored the strict external security: steel fences, limited attendance and heightened policing. Despite the unrest outside, Italy defeated Israel 3-0, securing at least a playoff spot. Inside the stadium, reactions to the Israeli anthem were mixed, with sections booing while others applauded. Italy’s coach acknowledged the tense context and said there had been doubts about whether the match would take place.

The demonstration came after a recent ceasefire and prisoner exchange, with many marchers arguing the truce lacked mechanisms for accountability and insisting protests must continue. Calls for FIFA to suspend Israel—citing parallels with the suspension of Russia in 2022—were prominent among demands. Organizers framed the rally as part of wider public pressure over the Gaza war, while authorities emphasized the need to prevent spillover into violence and protect public order.

The episode illustrated the challenges of separating sport from politics amid ongoing international conflict: large public demonstrations, intense security preparations and localized confrontations underscored how the Gaza war continues to polarize societies and complicate major sporting events.