# Controversy over Gaza comparison in Ancona

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/controversy-over-gaza-comparison-in-ancona
> Updated: 2026-10-20T09:06:24.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2.

Political tension arose in Ancona following a motion introduced by City Councilor Maria Grazia De Angelis of the Fratelli d’Italia party. During a session focused on defending persecuted Christians, De Angelis compared the Gaza Strip to the ‘Riviera romagnola’, stating that areas where Christians face violence and imprisonment make Gaza appear like a resort by comparison.

The remarks triggered a walkout by center-left opposition members and criticism from Emilia-Romagna Governor Michele de Pascale. While the motion passed, the comments led to organized protests by the Marche for Palestine coordination. Activists held sit-ins at the Palazzo del Popolo, demanding De Angelis’s resignation and calling for the city to establish a twinning process with Gaza City.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-20: Ancona activists demand resignation of councilor Maria Grazia De Angelis

Protesters in Ancona, Italy, are demanding the resignation of councilor Maria Grazia De Angelis following controversial remarks regarding Gaza.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ancona-activists-demand-resignation-of-councilor-maria-grazia-de-angelis

### 2026-10-15: Ancona Councilor sparks controversy with Gaza comparison

Ancona Councilor Maria Grazia De Angelis sparked controversy after comparing Gaza to the Romagna Riviera during a motion to support persecuted Christians, leading to an opposition walkout.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ancona-councilor-sparks-controversy-with-gaza-comparison

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Cite as: Controversy over Gaza comparison in Ancona. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/controversy-over-gaza-comparison-in-ancona