A message posted on social media by Luca Nivarra, professor of law at the University of Palermo, has sparked strong reactions. In the post, the professor called for people to break off friendships on social media with Jewish people, even those critical of the Israeli government's actions, considering them accomplices nonetheless. The university's Rector, Massimo Midiri, distanced himself from the post, calling it a “culturally dangerous initiative that is far from the principles of the university” and stressing that “on complex issues such as the conflict in the Middle East, dialogue should be encouraged, not isolation”. Midiri also pointed out that the university's Senate and Board of Directors had already approved motions condemning both the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, and the subsequent Israeli military operations in Gaza, reaffirming the university's commitment to defending human rights. The Minister for Universities, Anna Maria Bernini, also spoke, describing Nivarra's words as “offensive not only to the Jewish people, but to all those who believe in the values of respect and civil coexistence”. Bernini expressed her appreciation for the Rector's clear stance, recalling that conflicts can only be overcome through dialogue and the pursuit of peace.