Israeli Ambassador's presence at Viterbo event sparks local controversy

Controversy has emerged in Viterbo following the invitation of the Israeli Ambassador to Israel, Jonathan Peled, to a local event at Palazzo Gentili on September 3. The event was held in honor of the Trasporto della Macchina di Santa Rosa.

Irene Massini, a secretary for the Viterbo circle of Rifondazione Comunista, issued an open letter protesting the Ambassador's presence. In response, defenders of the diplomatic move argue that the invitation serves to maintain essential diplomatic channels and civil relations between Italy and Israel during a period of instability in the Middle East.