Chabad Rabbi Attacked in Milan, Three Suspects Arrested

Rabbi Tzemach Mizrahi, a 51-year-old Chabad emissary and rabbi of the central Chabad community in Milan, Italy, was assaulted by three individuals while waiting at a bus stop in the Jewish quarter. The attack occurred as Rabbi Mizrahi was on his way to pick up his children from school. Rabbi Mizrahi, an Israeli citizen who has been serving in Milan for approximately 30 years, recounted the incident to the press, stating, "The three began to provoke me and snatched my hat. When I asked for it back, one of the attackers kicked me hard, sending me to the road, but thankfully I did not require medical attention."

The three suspects were apprehended by Milan police shortly after the incident and are currently under investigation. Rabbi Mizrahi remained at the police station for several hours to provide his statement. He noted that the police took the matter very seriously, arresting the attackers immediately, and they were to remain in custody overnight. "I've been at the police station for several hours for clarification and to complete the investigation. The officers took this very seriously, arrested the attackers immediately, and tonight they will remain in custody," the Rabbi said.

Rabbi Mizrahi observed that there has been a recent increase in the perceived presence of certain groups on the streets, but he expressed hope that the swift arrest of the assailants would serve as a deterrent and lead to a calmer situation. He added that he hopes the arrest of the three attackers will deter future incidents and bring about a period of calm.