A strike in solidarity with the people of Gaza caused disruptions across Italy on Monday, with long delays on intercity trains and public transport in major cities including Rome and Milan.

Some rail connections were delayed by more than an hour, and public transport in several urban centres operated only partially, local media reported.

Schools and universities, including in Turin, reported blockades, while pro-Palestinian demonstrations were also held in a number of cities.

The strike was called by the USB union to protest what it described as the worsening humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, and to demand sanctions against Israel.

The walkout by transport workers is expected to last until Monday evening.

Italy’s biggest national unions did not join the action.

(dpa/NAN)