Italy is witnessing a massive general strike today, organized by the major unions Cgil and Uil, in protest against the government's financial maneuver.

The strike, which affects both public and private sectors, is a response to what unions describe as an inadequate budget law that fails to address the country's pressing issues.

Key demands include increasing the purchasing power of wages and pensions, and boosting funding for healthcare, education, and public services.

The strike has seen participation from around 500,000 workers across 43 cities, with a reported 70% adherence rate.

Public transport, healthcare, education, and public administration are among the sectors impacted, with varying durations of work stoppages.

The protests have sparked tensions, notably in Bologna, where Transport Minister Matteo Salvini faced backlash for limiting the strike duration, and in Turin, where clashes occurred between pro-Palestinian demonstrators and police.