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Introduction
Large-scale political tensions spilled into Italy’s cruise ports on December 6, 2025, as activists in Olbia (Sardinia) and Brindisi (Apulia) staged demonstrations against the scheduled arrivals of the Crown Iris, operated by Israeli company Mano Maritime. Protesters denounced what they termed “Zionist tourism,” accusing the visits of normalizing Israeli military actions amid the ongoing war in Gaza.
Details of the Protests
Olbia Demonstration:
- Activists gathered in Piazza Elena di Gallura, despite the Crown Iris having cancelled its Olbia call months prior.
- Organizers argued the protest was symbolic and necessary to prevent “safe passage for violators of international law.”
- Speakers stated that Israeli tourism cannot be considered apolitical during wartime, claiming that docking permissions would equate to welcoming “potential war criminals.”
Brindisi Protest and Confrontation:
- In Brindisi, activists from the Committee Against the Genocide of Palestinians gathered early to oppose the Crown Iris’ arrival.
- As the ship docked around 08:00 a.m., tensions escalated between protesters and Israeli passengers.
- Videos reported by Italian and international media allegedly show passengers making obscene gestures, mock choking motions, and shouting insults.
- Protesters held banners reading “Zionists out” and “End cooperation with Israel,” claiming the ship carried “Israeli soldiers posing as tourists.”
- A brief physical confrontation ensued—shoving, spitting, and shouting—prompting immediate police separation of the groups.
- No injuries or arrests were reported by local authorities.
Context and Escalating Tensions
- The demonstrations reflect increasing civil unrest across Italy linked to the conflict in Gaza.
- Recent events—including the interception of a humanitarian flotilla—have triggered nationwide protests, labor strikes, and public campaigns against perceived cooperation with Israel.
- Italian port calls by Israeli-operated ships have become flashpoints, blending geopolitical tensions with local sentiment toward cruise-traffic partnerships.
Port and Company Responses
- Authorities in both Olbia and Brindisi deployed police units to manage the gatherings and prevent escalation.
- No damage to port infrastructure occurred, and cruise operations were not significantly interrupted.
- Mano Maritime has not publicly commented on the protests as of this report.