A Jewish tourist from France, aged 22, was attacked twice in central Rome on two consecutive days while wearing a kippah.
Italian police arrested an Algerian citizen aged 31 who is homeless and has a criminal record. He is suspected of involvement in both incidents. Authorities are investigating suspected violent offenses as well as incitement to crimes motivated by racial, ethnic, and religious discrimination.
According to the tourist’s complaint, the first attack occurred at approximately 8 p.m. on August 7 in Piazza Cairoli, in the center of the Italian capital. The suspect allegedly sprayed pepper spray into his face before shouting, “Free Palestine.”
The tourist was attacked again the following day at Largo di Torre Argentina, only about 300 meters from the site of the first assault.
According to his testimony, a group of four people surrounded him and kicked him. He identified one of the attackers as the same man allegedly involved in the first incident. The words “Free Palestine” were reportedly shouted during the second attack as well.
Police are continuing their investigation and searching for the three remaining suspects. Italian authorities emphasized that the accusations remain allegations and that legal proceedings against the detained suspect are ongoing.
The attacks prompted strong condemnations from senior Italian officials and Jewish community leaders.
“Sadly, the hunting season for Jews has reached the streets of Rome as well,” said Victor Fadlun, president of the Jewish Community of Rome. He also warned against public indifference toward displays of antisemitism.
Italian Senate President Ignazio La Russa condemned the attacks, saying that society must never become accustomed to such incidents and that antisemitism cannot be allowed to become a form of normality that people accept or tolerate.
Italian Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Antonio Tajani said that Italy stands firmly for religious freedom and strongly opposes antisemitism and any violence directed at people because of their religious identity.
Israel’s ambassador to Italy, Jonathan Peled, said that when a Jewish person can no longer walk through a city without being attacked, the issue is no longer only the security of a minority.
“It is about everyone’s freedom,” he said.
