Backlash ensues as pictures of Italian fascist salute ignite political controversy

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is facing calls to ban neo-fascist groups after a rally in Rome on Sunday night where hundreds of men were seen giving fascist salutes. The event was held to commemorate three far-right activists who were killed in the 1970s, allegedly by far-left militants. A video of the rally was shared on social media, showing rows of black-clad men extending their right arms and shouting slogans typical of the Italian far-right. The scenes have been widely condemned by politicians from across the political spectrum. Some critics point to Prime Minister Meloni's own political background and her party's logo, which still features a symbol associated with neo-fascism. Italy currently does not have a law that prohibits the use of fascist imagery or gestures, although laws against apology for fascism do exist but are rarely enforced.