Israeli Attacked by Anti-Semite in Philippines, Both Detained Together for Eight Days

Noam Shimon Rosenberg, an Israeli staying in the Philippines, was verbally and physically attacked by an American citizen at a local airport after Rosenberg removed his hat, revealing his traditional Jewish sidelocks. The American immediately hurled anti-Semitic insults, including "Baby killer, murderer, Zionist, too bad Hitler didn't finish the job." The verbal assault quickly escalated into a physical fight. When local police intervened, they arrested both Rosenberg and his attacker, detaining them together in the same cell for eight days.

During their time in the cramped detention space, Rosenberg and the American engaged in direct conversation, which Rosenberg says led to a profound and surprising change in the American's views toward Jews and Israel. Rosenberg humorously remarked that he "converted" the attacker, who now reportedly has a positive attitude toward Israel. The incident highlights the complexities of hate crimes and unexpected human interactions even in difficult circumstances.

Rosenberg recounted the incident and its aftermath in an interview with "HaOlam HaBoker," emphasizing the rapid onset of the attack and the unusual outcome of their shared detention. The story underscores both the persistence of anti-Semitism and the potential for dialogue to alter perceptions.