Fri Oct 03 18:09:13 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and news article based on the provided text:

**Summary:**

Italy’s upcoming World Cup qualifier against Israel in Udine is facing controversy due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Pro-Palestinian protesters demonstrated outside Italy’s training center, demanding the match be cancelled. This protest is part of a broader national strike across Italy, sparked by the Israeli navy’s interception of an aid flotilla bound for Gaza. Unions and student groups participated in the strike, disrupting transportation and education. Calls for Israel’s suspension from international football have also been made by the Italian Football Coaches’ Association.

**News Article:**

**Italy-Israel World Cup Qualifier Faces Boycott Calls Amid Gaza Conflict**

FLORENCE, Italy – Italy’s scheduled World Cup qualifier against Israel on October 14th in Udine is under mounting pressure, with pro-Palestinian protesters demanding its cancellation in response to the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

On Friday, protesters gathered outside the Italian national team’s training center in Florence, holding banners and chanting slogans denouncing Israel’s actions and urging authorities to prevent the match from taking place. Their demonstration was part of a nationwide general strike called by major Italian unions in solidarity with Palestinians and in reaction to the recent interception of an aid flotilla by the Israeli navy. The strike has caused significant disruption across Italy, with train and flight cancellations and school closures.

“How can you still allow Israel, a Zionist and criminal state, to play football games?” a protest leader shouted through a microphone.

The protest follows previous calls for Israel’s suspension from international competition, including a push by the Italian Football Coaches’ Association (AIAC) in August. UEFA is reportedly considering suspending Israel over the war.

The Italian national team is expected to convene at the Coverciano training center on Monday, as preparations for the match continue despite the escalating controversy. The game’s fate remains uncertain as pressure mounts from activists and calls for a boycott intensify.

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