Israeli ambassador’s historic visit to Stamford Hill

by Stephen Oryszczuk

The Orthodox Jewish community in Stamford Hill this week acknowledged “an historic visit” by Israeli Ambassador Daniel Taub, who said it was a “remarkable and important” occasion.

The envoy’s foray into the heart of Orthodox London was the first ever by an Israeli ambassador, and was the culmination of the community’s ongoing efforts to foster engagement with Israel, say organisers.

“It comes after many months of work by the [Orthodox] Jewish Community Council to build a platform where Stamford Hill could engage and support the state of Israel,” said community member Levi Schapiro.

“This is the start of a great new relationship which we hope to take forward in many ways to support the State of Israel, especially after some difficult times.”

Speaking after his visit, Ambassador Taub said: “I have had a truly remarkable and important visit. It was an opportunity to continue an important dialogue with the community, to ensure an ongoing relationship, and to create a meaningful partnership in connecting to Israel.”

From the Jewish Care Brenner Centre, to the Yesodei Hatorah School, and of course the Kol Benaich organisation

Rabbis and community leaders gave the Ambassador a tour of the area, including Jewish Care’s Brenner Centre and the Yesodei Hatorah School, before he was treated to lunch at the home of Rabbi Osher Schapiro, whose Kol Benaich works with boys from troubled backgrounds.