Rome, Oct. 18 -- Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni issued a firm condemnation of violent demonstrations across several major cities, declaring that while peaceful protest is fundamental to democratic society, political violence and destruction will not be tolerated.

In a statement posted on X addressing recent nationwide rallies, Meloni drew a sharp contrast between peaceful demonstrators and violent agitators who turned city streets into scenes of unrest.

"I have great respect for the thousands of people who today demonstrated peacefully, including those who took part in the mobilisation called by the CGIL, which also saw the participation of left-wing leaders," Meloni said. "Whatever the ideas for which one demonstrates, participa...