Italy on edge after nationwide student protests turn violent in Rome and Turin

Italy saw nationwide student protests on the "No Meloni Day," with organizers claiming over 400,000 participants demonstrating against school funding, military spending, immigration policies, and in solidarity with French students. Clashes with police occurred in several major cities, including Rome and Turin. In Rome, protesters burned Israeli and American flags before throwing firecrackers and tear gas at the Education Ministry. In Turin, a group of masked demonstrators threw stones and torches at police, leading to the arrest of three minors and identification of over 50 people. Unrest also occurred in Milan, Genoa, and Bologna. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned the violence while affirming the right to protest, urging political forces to call for peaceful demonstrations. Opposition leader Elly Schlein responded that students' grievances over unaffordable rents and deteriorating schools are legitimate, demanding the government provide concrete answers.