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UK Scouts investigate Muslim fellowship over Gaza art challenge after antisemitism complaint
Henry Jackson Society says Scout-affiliated art challenge featured slogans and imagery many Jews see as denying Israel’s existence
The Scout Association is investigating its UK Muslim Scout Fellowship (MSF) after an antisemitism complaint over a children’s art competition that featured controversial slogans and imagery linked to the Israel-Gaza conflict.
The complaint was submitted by the Henry Jackson Society (HJS), which alleged that children taking part in a “Paint for Gaza” challenge created artwork containing the slogan “From the river to the sea” and images showing Israel replaced by a Palestinian flag.
A Scout Association spokesperson told The Jerusalem Post: “We have a robust process in place to ensure that matters of this nature are investigated thoroughly, impartially and fairly.”
The spokesperson added that the complaint remains at an early stage while the organisation establishes the relevant facts.
“We will provide a response to the complaint once we have reviewed the matter in line with our policies,” they said.
According to the material shared online by the UK Muslim Scout Fellowship, the “Paint for Gaza” challenge was intended to encourage children to show “love and kindness toward children in Palestine”.
Many of the entries featured drawings of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and Palestinian flags. Others included the phrase “From the river to the sea” or maps in which Israel had been replaced by a Palestinian flag.
The slogan is viewed by many Jewish organisations as a call for the elimination of the State of Israel, although supporters say it expresses support for Palestinian freedom.
In its complaint, HJS said: “Given the slogan’s highly inflammatory nature, we are deeply concerned that children’s artwork bearing it has been circulated by a Scout-affiliated organisation.”
It added: “The Scouts Association has an important responsibility to ensure that all young people feel welcome and included, regardless of their background or faith.”
The Scout Association’s code of conduct states that it is politically neutral and opposes all forms of prejudice and discrimination.
The art challenge was organised in partnership with Islamic Relief. Israel has designated Islamic Relief Worldwide an unlawful organisation, alleging links to Hamas. The charity has denied allegations that it supports terrorism or promotes antisemitism.
In a statement to Jewish News, an Islamic Relief spokesperson said: “Islamic Relief supported a children’s activity encouraging compassion for civilians suffering in Gaza. It is not controversial for children and families to raise funds, express empathy or learn about humanitarian needs.
“We would urge commentators to use this drawing competition as a moment to reflect on the ongoing daily anguish of children in Gaza.”
Jewish News has contacted the UK Muslim Scout Fellowship for comment.
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