Italy's Lower House Erupts Into Fistfight Over Autonomy Proposal

5-Star Movement lawmaker Leonardo Donno, center top, is protected by parliament employees from other lawmakers during brawl in the lower chamber of deputies at the Italian parliament, in Rome, Wednesd

Tensions flared in Italy's lower house as a fistfight broke out among lawmakers over a government proposal that has sparked heated debate. The incident occurred during a session where a controversial expansion of regional autonomy was being discussed, with opponents arguing that it could exacerbate the economic disparities between the north and south of the country.

The scuffle ensued when a member of the opposition, who opposes the proposed changes, attempted to hand an Italian flag to a minister supporting the autonomy expansion. The confrontation quickly escalated, resulting in the opposition lawmaker being struck in the head and chest, leading to their hospitalization for evaluation.