A wave of outrage swept through Rome on Tuesday when a shocking antisemitic poster appeared at a bus stop in the capital, portraying a Nazi soldier with a Star of David replacing the swastika on his arm.
Located in Sonnino Square in the vibrant Trastevere district, the bus stop sees thousands of locals and visitors daily. Reports from Italy indicate that ATAC, the public transport authority, quickly directed its contractor to take down the offensive poster and stated it would pursue a police complaint over the act. The city also saw a disturbing mural showing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu kissing Hitler several weeks ago.
This was spotted in Rome — a Nazi uniform with a Star of David armband.
This isn't "criticism of Israel." This is pure antisemitism.
Comparing Jews to Nazis is vile, dangerous, and dehumanizing.
NEVER AGAIN IS TODAY. pic.twitter.com/QyDXww6h6R
— Hananya Naftali (@HananyaNaftali) July 2, 2025
Victor Fadlun, head of Rome's Jewish community, expressed gratitude for ATAC's rapid response while sounding the alarm on the city's rising antisemitism. "Even with the authorities' efforts, this act reflects a surge in intolerable antisemitism, thriving in a climate tainted by reckless rhetoric and hateful narratives," he said.
Fadlun stressed the Jewish community's resolve, stating, "We will not endure any intimidation or assault on the memory, identity, or honor of the Jewish people. Our vigilance remains unwavering, and we will relentlessly challenge both antisemitic acts and the hatred that fuels them."
He urged, "Faced with such acts, all must unite in defense of democratic principles without wavering. Combating antisemitism is not solely a Jewish struggle – it is a shared duty."
Just days prior, Milan saw similar antisemitic signs declaring, "Israelis not welcome here." Nahum reported that Angela Persici, a local council member, swiftly removed them.
