British Jews targeted online and off amid escalating Mideast conflict
Community Security Trust says it has received increased reports of anti-Jewish hate in the UK amid fighting in the Middle East.
There has been a rise of antisemitic incidents in the UK following the latest outbreak of Israel-Palestine violence, according to a leading communal organisation.
Community Security Trust said it had received a small increase in reports of street incidents, but a considerable increase in online abuse.
It added its fear that such incidents could yet worsen, citing the potential for incitement on social media.
CST chief executive, Mark Gardner, told the Jewish News: “There has been a steadily rising number of reported antisemitic incidents on the streets, but online activity is worsening considerably.
“This follows the pattern of previous Middle East conflicts and has the potential to get much worse, depending upon overseas events, and local incitement at demonstrations and on social media.
“We are fully monitoring this very volatile situation and urge the community to report antisemitism or suspicious behaviour to CST, but to call 999 in an emergency.”
CST had earlier this week put the community on alert urging communal organisations to follow security advice, including locking gates and reporting anyone conducting “hostile reconnaissance” near communal buildings.
The news comes as prime minister Boris Johnson this morning urged Israel and Palestinians to “step back from the brink”, saying the UK was deeply concerned by growing violence and civilian casualties.
The intervention came after hundreds of rockets were fired from Gaza while Israeli forces bombarded the territory with air strikes in the most serious fighting since the 50-day war in 2014.
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