Israeli Tourist Sues Greek Bar for Discrimination Over 'Zionists Not Welcome' Sign

An Israeli tourist, Galit Ben Shimhon, is taking legal action against a bar on the Greek island of Lesbos after encountering a sign that declared "Zionists not welcome." Ben Shimhon, who is currently vacationing in Greece, discovered the discriminatory sign at a local establishment and decided to confront the owner.

According to an interview with "News at Noon," Ben Shimhon approached the bar owner after seeing the sign, requesting its removal. When her request was denied, she informed the owner that she would pursue legal action under Greek and European law, citing discrimination. She stated that such actions are illegal and can carry penalties of up to six months imprisonment and a fine.

Ben Shimhon explained her motivation, stating that as a business owner herself, she would never consider such discriminatory practices. She believes that while protest is one thing, discrimination and breaking the law are entirely different. She also mentioned that the bar owner claimed to be "pro-Palestinian" and that the sign was an exercise of "freedom of expression," which Ben Shimhon countered by calling it incitement to violence.

This incident follows a similar event in Athens where an Israeli couple was reportedly expelled from a bar after the owner discovered they were from Israel. Ben Shimhon also noted a broader issue of anti-Israeli sentiment, mentioning an altercation that nearly turned violent the previous night, allegedly fueled by leaflets accusing Israelis of taking over the island and harming Greeks. She is also considering legal action against the producers of these leaflets.