Friday, September 12, 2025
Orthodox couple attacked in Venice as antisemitic incidents in Europe raise anxiety for Jews and Israelis
The mayor of Venice has condemned an alleged attack on American Orthodox Jews who said they were targeted by a group that shouted "free Palestine" and then proceeded to slap them.
The American couple, who were reportedly wearing traditional Orthodox clothing, were walking through Venice on Sunday night when the incident took place, according to Italian news agency AGI.
Three of the assailants, who were believed to be of North African origin, were apprehended, with two receiving expulsion orders and a third being deported, according to AGI.
"Venice is and must continue to be an open, welcoming, and safe city, where mutual respect forms the foundation of civil coexistence. The aggression suffered by two American citizens of Jewish faith is a serious and unacceptable act, which I condemn with the utmost firmness," Venice Mayor Luigi Brugnaro said in a post on X
