That pinching thing extends to europe as well.
My dad got stationed in Italy in the 60s, while we were there it happened to my mom on multiple occasions.......used to piss her off to no end.
It’s not machismo culture, it’s misogynistic behavior IMO.
My Scottish mom to this day carries a knife. I’d like to see somebody mess with her.
I’ve often heard of it happening in Italy, as well. It’s probably not as common now as it used to be; but it’s still done.