Italian authorities are preparing for a large-scale anti-Israel demonstration on Tuesday in the northern city of Udine, just hours before the World Cup qualifying match between Italy and Israel (kickoff at 9:45 p.m. local time). Security forces have imposed tight measures amid fears that protesters could attempt to storm the Friuli Stadium.
Police have deployed counterterrorism units, installed metal detectors and barriers, and restricted access to areas around the arena. Only about 8,000 tickets have been sold for the 25,000-seat venue.
According to Italian media reports, the protest—organized by the local “Pro-Palestinian Committee of Udine”—is scheduled to begin at 4:30 p.m. in Piazza della Repubblica and end near the stadium. Authorities fear potential violent infiltrations by activists arriving from outside the region, including neighboring Austria and Slovenia.
The demonstration is expected to proceed despite the recently declared ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, which has not curbed growing anti-Israel sentiment across Europe.
Local officials have also imposed restrictions on the sale of food and beverages in glass, ceramic, or aluminum containers starting from 8 a.m. Tuesday to prevent their use during unrest.
Tensions in Udine escalated after activists condemned the Israeli team’s stay at a central hotel on Viale Ledra, calling it “provocative.” Italian outlets reported that the hotel is under heavy police protection, surrounded by two-meter barriers and monitored around the clock.
Enhanced security is also in place at Friuli Stadium itself, with anti-terror squads, pre-screening zones, and thorough security checks planned for all attendees.
Meanwhile, smaller demonstrations against Israel’s participation were also held in Rome, despite the ceasefire. Italian news sites noted, “Today will be a major test for Udine’s police, who must balance residents’ freedom of expression with public safety.”