Priest in Milan filmed responding to protesters with obscene gesture

Giannicola Maria Simone, a 65-year-old Italian priest, was filmed making an obscene middle-finger gesture toward a protester in front of the Church of Sant’Alessandro di Zebedia in Milan. The incident occurred during civil unrest in the city on October 17, which involved clashes with police and looting.

In an interview with Corriere della Sera, Simone confirmed the authenticity of the video. He stated that a young man directed the gesture at him first and that he responded in kind without the intention of inciting violence. Simone noted that he had previously rushed to close the church doors to protect tourists and pedestrians, allowing them to seek shelter inside until the situation stabilized.

The priest expressed that he does not regret his reaction, emphasizing that he did not commit any physical aggression. He also mentioned having spoken with some of the youths involved, though he described their reasons for participating in the unrest as vague.