Authorities in Kyrgyzstan have removed an antisemitic sign from a hotel in the city of Osh following international condemnation.

The sign, which included the message “Jews and animals are not allowed,” was displayed in multiple languages and featured symbols including a Star of David. A photo shared online by Israel’s embassy described it as an “openly antisemitic and offensive statement.”

Israel’s ambassador to Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan, Yoav Bistritsky, said officials acted quickly after the issue was raised publicly.

“I welcome the swift action by the authorities in Kyrgyzstan to remove the antisemitic and offensive sign and to open a criminal investigation against those responsible,” Bistritsky wrote in a statement. “Such hatred has no place in any society. I will continue to follow the matter closely.”

Local authorities have since launched an investigation into the incident, though details about those responsible have not been publicly disclosed.

The episode has drawn attention to the small Jewish community in Kyrgyzstan, which is estimated at around 400 people in a country of roughly 7.4 million. Israel and Kyrgyzstan have maintained diplomatic relations since 1992.

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