Milan priest responds to rioters with offensive gesture

Father Giannicola Maria Simone, a 65-year-old priest at the Church of Sant’Alessandro di Zebedia, has gained viral attention after being filmed gesturing with his middle finger toward a group of masked rioters in Milan.

The incident occurred during violent student-led protests in Milan and other northern Italian cities on October 17. According to video footage and statements from Simone, a young protester directed an offensive gesture toward him, to which the priest responded in kind.

Speaking to the newspaper Corriere della Sera, Simone confirmed the authenticity of the video, dismissing claims that it was generated by artificial intelligence. He stated that he acted without violent intentions or the desire to escalate the situation, noting, “They’re kids, so I’m not surprised. I gave them the middle finger back, but without any violent intentions or the risk of sparking further anger.”

During the unrest, which included looting and clashes with police, Simone reported that he used the church to provide shelter for tourists and passersby seeking safety from the chaos.