The Jerusalem Post (www.jpost.com) reports that over 50 graves in the Jewish sector of Rome's largest cemetery were vandalized by unknown assailants.

In contrast to similar occurrences, investigators found no symbols or graffiti claiming responsibility for the attack and are as yet unable to identify the perpetrators. However, the vast scale of the desecration points to a well-organized and long-planned anti-Semitic raid to be carried out on the night of Tisha Be'av.

A stunned Jewish community responded by hanging a banner outside the Verano Cemetery which reads: "Violence on the dead, shame on Italy." Amos Luzzatto, president of the Italian Jewish Communities, stated that "This is a worrying act, meticulously prepared and executed on a mournful day for all Jews. This reveals a political plan aimed at us."

Rome Chief Rabbi Riccardo Di Segni received messages of support from political leaders and institutional personalities, together with a promise by Mayor Walter Veltroni to catch those responsible for the attack.