Italian students and unions launched protests on Friday, with the government increasing security measures in response to potential unrest. The protests targeted soaring living costs, education investment, and the war in the Middle East. Tens of thousands of demonstrators marched in dozens of cities including Rome, Milan, and Naples, while minor clashes between protesters and riot police occurred in Turin. The USB union called for a general strike, attracting a large number of demonstrators including truck drivers, taxi drivers, and farmers. Previously, the government had agreed to a €175 million ($195 million) aid package for truck drivers, farmers, and fishermen affected by soaring fuel prices.