Israeli Families Face Anti-Israel Hostility During Sardinia Birthday Trip

Eight families from Israel, France, the United States, and Morocco gathered on the Italian island of Sardinia to celebrate a 70th birthday, but their vacation turned distressing due to anti-Israel messages displayed around the island. The group, totaling about 30 relatives, encountered posters in cafes written in Hebrew and English stating "All IDF soldiers are war criminals, occupiers, rapists, murderers, we don't want you here." These signs, along with flags associated with terrorists responsible for the October 7 massacre, deeply affected the families.

Rebeka Shamai, mother of an Israeli combat commander, described the experience as shocking and painful, saying the hostile atmosphere made them feel unwelcome and disgusted to remain on the island. She emphasized that Israeli and Jewish money should not support countries that express hatred toward them. Shamai also expressed strong support for the IDF soldiers, calling them heroes and vital to the survival of the Israeli people.

What was meant to be a joyful family reunion across continents ended with feelings of humiliation and sorrow. The families returned home disappointed, burdened by the anti-Israel hostility they faced during their stay in one of Europe's popular vacation destinations.