Violent Fight Sparked At Manila Airport After Antisemitic Remarks Towards Israeli

MANILA, Philippines (VINnews) — An Israeli traveler and an American passenger are under investigation after a violent fight at Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport that reportedly followed an exchange of antisemitic remarks, according to reports.

The confrontation occurred in the domestic departures waiting area as both men were traveling to Cebu. Video of the incident circulated widely on social media Saturday evening, showing a man being beaten in front of passengers and other bystanders.

According to reports cited by Ynet, Noam told authorities that Lee directed antisemitic remarks at him, including calling him a “Jewish baby killer” and saying, “Hitler was right.” Another account of the incident quoted the alleged remarks as, “I wish Hitler had finished the job.”

Noam reportedly became angry over the comments, kicked Lee’s trolley bag and punched him. A nearby table was damaged during the altercation.

Lee gave authorities a different account, saying Noam had interrupted a private conversation and attacked him without provocation.

Airport police separated the men, and both were taken to a hospital for medical evaluation. The case was referred to the city prosecutor, and both men are being investigated on suspicion of causing alarm and scandal.

The incident was also shared online, where the footage quickly spread.

The video, however, does not show what happened immediately before the fight. It therefore does not independently establish what prompted the confrontation or who initiated the physical violence.

The allegations regarding the exchange of remarks have not been independently verified. It was not immediately clear whether either man had been formally charged.

The incident drew widespread reaction online, particularly over the alleged antisemitic remarks and the level of violence captured in the footage.