Chabad Envoy Attacked by Three Youths in Milan

Rabbi Tzemach Mizrahi, a Chabad emissary in Milan, Italy, was assaulted in broad daylight by three young men described as having a Muslim appearance. The incident occurred while Rabbi Mizrahi was waiting at a bus stop, reportedly coordinating prayer services for Yom Kippur. According to his account, the youths initially tried to provoke him, but he ignored them. One of the attackers then snatched his hat, put it on, and mocked him. Rabbi Mizrahi retrieved his hat and began filming the assailants to provide evidence to security forces. Upon realizing they were being filmed, one of the youths allegedly attacked Rabbi Mizrahi, kicking him forcefully off the sidewalk and into the street.

Despite the bus stop being crowded with people, Rabbi Mizrahi stated that no bystanders intervened to help or separate the attackers. He described a palpable sense of fear, with onlookers hesitant to get involved due to the assailants' aggressive demeanor. Following the attack, Rabbi Mizrahi spent approximately six hours at the central police station in Milan, where he was questioned about the incident. He reported that the police initiated an intensive investigation to locate the perpetrators.

When asked about the general atmosphere in Italy, Rabbi Mizrahi observed that the country is changing, with a noticeable increase in the Muslim population in public spaces. However, he expressed optimism, viewing the incident as a sign of the end of exile and a great awakening, rather than a cause for fear.