Italy Pushes Landmark Bill to Define Antisemitism, Including Certain Criticism of Israel

Italy is expected to pass a new law defining antisemitism soon, following a sharp rise in hate crimes against Jews, 12N reported Thursday. Since 2023, antisemitism in Italy has risen by 100 percent, reaching 963 incidents in 2025.

If approved, the Italian bill would make Italy the first country to enshrine in law the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance's definition of antisemitism. The alliance defines certain types of criticism of Israel as antisemitism. That definition has been adopted by 45 countries as guidance, but until now has not been anchored in law in any country. The Italian bill passed the upper house by a large majority last month and is expected to begin the legislative process in the lower house.

Meanwhile, according to the report, France, where antisemitic incidents reached 1,320 last year, is also considering a similar law. The bill up for debate in France today imposes sanctions on "implicit justification" of terror and on calls for the destruction of a state recognized by France. "Hatred of the State of Israel is inseparable from hatred of Jews," the bill's text says.

In France, there are critics of the bill. Human rights organizations, academics, and left-wing politicians argue that "the laws will censor legitimate activity in support of Palestinian rights and contribute to blurring the distinction between Jews and the State of Israel."