Italy boosts security as cost-of-living protests stay mostly peaceful in Rome and Milan

Italy deployed heavy security Saturday for protests over living costs and war, which remained mostly peaceful after violent clashes last weekend in Turin, Rome, and Bologna. Authorities arrested a suspect linked to the "October 17 Movement" and conducted searches ahead of rallies. Thousands gathered in Rome and Milan chanting against the government, with police in riot gear and soldiers patrolling. Milan saw around 3,000 marchers, some shops closed or boarded windows, while others stayed open to signal safety. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's government approved tougher security measures, including easing minor detention rules. The protests follow a wave of unrest by students, truck drivers, and farmers over housing and fuel costs, with truck blockades in southern Italy now lifted. The government approved financial aid for businesses facing fuel price spikes after the Middle East war.