Popular Initiative to Sever Rome’s Ties with Israel Gains Momentum
Rome, January 18, 2026 – A popular initiative committee, operating under the banner ‘Roma sa da che parte stare’ (Rome Knows Which Side to Be On), has officially deposited a proposal for a popular resolution with the Capitoline. This initiative aims for the immediate cessation of all relations between the City of Rome and the State of Israel. The committee has announced that a city-wide signature collection will commence on Saturday, January 24th, following a press conference scheduled for Friday, January 23rd, at 12:00 PM in Piazza del Campidoglio.
The proposal seeks to bring the issue before the Capitoline Assembly, utilizing a mechanism provided by the statute of Roma Capitale that allows citizens to directly influence local policy through popular initiatives.
Motivations Stemming from Gaza and the West Bank
According to statements from the committee, the decision to pursue this initiative is driven by concerns over ongoing events in Gaza and the West Bank. The committee asserts that, despite a supposed truce, what they describe as ‘genocide in Gaza’ and ‘ethnic cleansing in the West Bank and East Jerusalem’ have continued unabated in recent months. They cite hundreds of bombings, which they claim have resulted in approximately 500 Palestinian casualties, including one hundred children. Furthermore, the committee highlights blockades of supplies and the expulsion of dozens of international aid organizations, emphasizing that residents in Gaza continue to suffer from cold and hunger, while settler and military attacks persist in the West Bank.
“Unacceptable Relations with the State of Israel”
In light of this perceived situation, the committee declared its unwillingness to accept any form of relationship between the Capitoline and the State of Israel or its associated companies. This stance, as explained by the proponents, arises from a conviction that institutions have displayed inertia and complicity in the face of events unfolding in Palestinian territories.
Mobilization of Associations and Trade Unions
Responding to what they term an ‘institutional response vacuum,’ numerous organizations actively involved in Palestinian solidarity, alongside several grassroots trade unions, have pledged their support for the popular initiative. These groups are leveraging the participatory tools outlined in the Capitoline Statute to advance their cause.
Signature Collection Underway
The signature collection effort is slated to begin on Saturday, January 24th, with collection points established across the city. This campaign will continue for three months, with tables set up in various neighborhoods, workplaces, schools, and universities. The stated objective is to significantly surpass the 5,000 signatures required to compel the Capitoline Assembly to deliberate on the proposed resolution.
Focus on Mekorot and Teva
Among the specific relationships that the committee seeks to terminate are those with Israeli companies Mekorot and Teva. These firms are explicitly named as primary targets for the initial application of the resolution, underscoring the committee’s focus on economic and corporate ties.
Press Conference at Campidoglio
The official presentation of the popular resolution proposal is scheduled for Friday, January 23rd, at 12:00 PM in Piazza del Campidoglio. This event will take the form of a press conference, open to both the public and media organizations, providing a platform for the committee to articulate its objectives and gather support.
