Security Decree: Approval for detention of minors, Quirinale blocks special powers for the military

The government has approved the new security decree, which introduces the crime of "organized violence in public demonstrations" and extends preventive detention to minors as well. The measure comes after the clashes over the weekend in Milan, ahead of new demonstrations announced for the weekend.

However, the President of the Republic, Sergio Mattarella, has placed a "limit" on the decree, having the measure removed that would have recognized the judicial police function to the military engaged in the "Safe Streets" operation, with the possibility of making arrests. The government also promises an additional 500 military personnel for Milan, where the preliminary investigations judge has reiterated the "high risk" of new unrest.

At the same time, the government has allocated 480 million euros for the road haulage sector, with the promise of reaching over one billion, in an attempt to quell the ongoing protests by transport workers in Southern Italy.

The crackdown on public order originates in response to the severe unrest that occurred in Milan the previous weekend, characterized by clashes and looting. These episodes prompted the government to intervene with a decree-law, an instrument that allows for rapid legislation in cases of necessity and urgency.

The debate over the powers of the armed forces in matters of public order is not new. The "Safe Streets" operation, launched years ago, involves the use of military personnel in surveillance tasks alongside police forces, but with limited powers. The proposal to extend judicial police functions to them, now blocked by the Quirinal, would have represented a significant expansion of their duties, bringing them closer to those of traditional law enforcement.

The situation has become complicated with the emergence of divergent positions within the government itself: Defense Minister Guido Crosetto spoke of a "hybrid war" behind the unrest, while Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Matteo Salvini rejected the idea of a "mastermind," creating a rift. Meanwhile, on social media, the "October 17 Movement" has emerged, promoting permanent mobilization and fueling fears of new protests.