Violent protests erupted in Bologna during EuroLeague basketball games between Virtus Bologna and Maccabi Tel Aviv, involving about 5,000 pro-Palestinian demonstrators.Police responded with water cannons and tear gas as protesters threw firecrackers, stones, and clubs, leading to clashes lasting until after the game.Italian authorities maintained the event under heavy security despite calls to relocate, with political reactions including condemnation from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and criticism from various parties over security and political handling.