Thousands of Italians protest against US-Israeli military action in Iran

Thousands of people marched through Rome on Saturday to denounce U.S.‑Israeli military operations against Iran and demand an immediate ceasefire, reported CCTV+.

The main rally kicked off at Piazza della Repubblica in central Rome, with demonstrators marching through the city's downtown area before concluding the procession at Piazza San Giovanni. Local police estimated that over 25,000 people participated in the protest.

"Those who always pay the highest price in wars are the workers, the ordinary citizens, and all the most vulnerable groups of society," said Marco, a protester at the rally.

Similar anti-war demonstrations have been reported elsewhere in Europe in recent days, including rallies in Madrid on March 24 and across Greece on March 28. Protesters there also demanded a ceasefire and voiced opposition to U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran.

The protests came in the wake of joint U.S.-Israeli strikes on Tehran and multiple other Iranian cities since Feb. 28. The attacks claimed the lives of Iran's former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, senior military commanders, and hundreds of civilians.

As thousands filled the streets of Rome, the protest reflected mounting public pressure on Italy's government to respond to the escalating Middle East crisis, and showed how European citizens are increasingly demanding a stronger voice in calls for peace.