Palestinian protest against Israeli participants at fair turns violent in Italy

By Baris Seckin

ROME (AA) - A clash broke out between Palestinian supporters and security forces in northern Italy as demonstrators attempted to protest the participation of Israelis at a fair, according to media reports.

Around 500 people marched in Vicenza to express opposition to Israel's attacks against the Gaza Strip and show support for Palestine.

When demonstrators tried to protest Israeli participants at a local gold fair, they faced off with Italian security forces.

Reports said clashes broke out when demonstrators, who were carrying banners with messages that said: "Stop the global war" and "Free Palestine," were not allowed to enter the fair by security forces.

Protesters responded to police intervention with batons by using fireworks and smoke bombs.

Around 10 security personnel were injured and five protesters were detained.