Authorities at Italy’s Ravenna port have blocked two trucks reportedly carrying explosives bound for the Israeli port of Haifa, responding to mounting protests by dockworkers and labour unions opposed to the ongoing genocide in Gaza. Ravenna Mayor Alessandro Barattoni confirmed that the port authority acted on a joint request from local officials, citing concerns over bureaucratic loopholes that allow arms to transit through Italy despite national restrictions on sales to Israel.

The action follows similar protests by dockworkers in France, Sweden, and Greece, who have mobilised to halt weapons shipments destined for Israel. Italy’s largest trade union, CGIL, has called for a national day of action, urging European governments to suspend military and trade agreements with Israel until the genocide in Gaza ends. Strikes and demonstrations are planned across the country, while essential public services will remain unaffected.

Earlier this year, Genoa dockworkers staged a sit-in, refusing to load weapons onto Israeli vessels, in solidarity with humanitarian convoys seeking to deliver aid to civilians in Gaza. Unions have warned that shipments will remain blocked until the safety of these missions is guaranteed, even raising the prospect of coordinated international strikes. The protests reflect growing European labour solidarity with civilians enduring systematic violence and suffering under occupation.