Storm in Italy: Jewish teachers required to disavow Israel - Jewish organizations demand apology

Five major American Jewish organizations condemned the cancellation of a visit by 68 Jewish educators to Reggio Emilia, Italy, after they were asked to disavow Israeli policy. The Israeli delegation of 22 teachers refused to sign and participated as planned under security.

A storm erupted in Italy after five major American Jewish organizations issued a joint condemnation following the cancellation of a visit by 68 Jewish educators from the United States to the northern Italian city of Reggio Emilia. The visit, scheduled from October 11 to 16, was intended to familiarize participants with the city's renowned educational system. Ahead of the arrival of the American and Israeli delegations, pro-Palestinian activists protested, claiming some participants had ties to the IDF. The host center, Reggio Children, presented a political statement that included a disavowal of Israeli policy. The Americans canceled their participation, while 22 Israeli educators arrived in the city, refused to sign the statement, and attended the training under security. Mayor Marco Massari denied that a signature was required for participation but defended the principles document, which included a condemnation of genocide. The Jewish organizations are demanding a public apology from Reggio Children.