The Jewish community of Tripoli was reported in a ferment today after 214 Jews had been arrested and there Jewish leaders flogged into unconsciousness by order of the Italian provincial authorities for keeping their stores closed on Saturday.
A huge crowd witnessed the whippings in the public square of the North African city, it was reported here. A German Jewish refugee, Dr. Pinner, who protested was immediately arrested and will be deported. Two other Jewish leaders sentenced to flagellation escaped the punishment when a doctor certified that their health would not permit physical torture.
The arrests and floggings were ordered by the Fascist authorities after the rabbinate had proclaimed a fast in protest against the order of Italian Provincial Commissioner Vellani to keep stores open on Saturdays.
Following the fast, the Jews opened their shops but refused to serve customers.
The Jewish situation in Tripoli is alarming, reports states, because of a violent anti-Jewish campaign conducted by local Fascists. Italian newspapers assert that the Jews wish to make Tripoli a “second vulgar Zionist city like Tel Aviv.”
Dr. David Prato, chief rabbi of Rome, is hastening to Tripoli, it was learned here.
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