Anti-Semitic Vandalism Targets Israeli Ice Cream Chain Branch in Barcelona

In Barcelona, Spain, vandals defaced a branch of the Israeli ice cream chain Anita with anti-Semitic graffiti overnight on Wednesday, November 11. The message, "Zionists, get out of our neighborhood," was spray-painted on the wall of the shop located in the central Vila de Gràcia district. This incident marks the latest in a series of anti-Semitic attacks and hate crimes directed at the Barcelona branch since October 7, 2023. Despite the repeated targeting, the owners of Anita have stated they will not be intimidated or hide their Israeli heritage. Adi Avital, a co-owner, affirmed their pride in their Israeli roots, stating, "Our doors are open to every person, regardless of their religion and nationality, and it will always be so. The writing on the wall can be erased, but our roots cannot be erased. We will not allow hate and intimidation to define who we are. We will continue to proudly represent Israeli business and remain one of the leading international chains."

Anita began as a small family business in Tel Aviv's Neve Tzedek neighborhood and has since expanded to approximately 30 international locations. Beyond Barcelona, the chain operates in cities across Australia, the United States, London, Puerto Rico, Mexico, New Zealand, and Cyprus.