Israeli Tourists From Gaza Border Attacked in Montenegro, Police Ignore Incident

A group of Israelis from the Gaza border area was violently attacked on Saturday night in Budva, Montenegro. The incident began when four foreigners approached the Israelis at a seaside promenade, asked where they were from, and upon hearing they were from Israel, launched a verbal and physical assault. The attackers shouted slogans like "Free Palestine" and later returned with a larger group of 10 to 15 young men aged 20-21, who proceeded to curse, threaten, and physically assault the Israelis.

The victims described being beaten with fists, kicked, and having chairs thrown at them. Some were forced to the ground and beaten severely. Three Israelis were separated from the group; one suffered a broken jaw and underwent surgery, another sustained heavy head injuries, and a third fainted during the attack. Despite the presence of local police officers, the victims said the officers dismissed their pleas, telling them they were disturbing neighbors and leaving without intervening.

The Israelis fled to a nearby Chabad house and then to a hospital to treat the injured. They contacted the Israeli embassy, which arranged early flights back to Israel. One victim described the experience as feeling like "the Holocaust," fearing for their lives but choosing not to retaliate. Another victim noted that they did not display any overt Israeli symbols during the attack and expressed shock that the violence was solely because they identified as Israelis.

The embassy advised them to avoid confrontations and return to Israel promptly. The victims criticized the local authorities for their lack of response and concern regarding the attack. This incident highlights tensions faced by Israeli travelers abroad and raises questions about local law enforcement's handling of hate-motivated violence.