**Excerpt:** U.K. police announce a new approach to tackle antisemitism amid rising hate crimes, particularly during protests, following a recent terrorist attack in Australia.
Key Points
– U.K. police forces will adopt a more assertive stance against antisemitism during protests.
– Officers will arrest individuals using specific slogans that incite fear among Jewish communities.
– The strategy follows a recent terrorist attack in Australia that killed 15 during a Hanukkah event.
– Increased police presence around synagogues and Jewish community venues is planned.
– The police emphasize the need for lawful protest without intimidation of Jewish communities.
New Approach to Antisemitism
On December 17, 2025, Britain’s largest police forces, the London Metropolitan Police and Greater Manchester Police, announced an “enhanced approach” to combat antisemitism. This initiative is a response to a notable increase in hate crimes targeting Jewish individuals in the United Kingdom.
Context of the Announcement
The police’s decision follows a deadly terrorist attack at a Hanukkah celebration in Bondi Beach, Australia, where 15 people were killed. They also referenced a violent incident in Manchester in October, where two Jewish individuals were murdered in a vehicle and knife attack outside a synagogue.
“Antisemitic hate crime has surged, protests have intensified, and online abuse has grown since 2023,” the police stated. They indicated that the increased fear among Jewish communities and the number of disrupted terrorist plots necessitated this enhanced response.
Assertive Measures and Legal Framework
The police clarified that many phrases causing concern, such as “globalize the intifada,” do not currently meet the prosecution thresholds under U.K. hate speech laws. However, the new measures will operate under existing Public Order Act provisions.
“We will act decisively and make arrests,” the police warned, emphasizing the real-world consequences of chants and slogans used during protests. The police intend to create a hostile environment for offenders while ensuring the protection of lawful protests.
Community Reactions
The announcement faced criticism from pro-Palestinian activists. Ben Jamal, director of the Palestinian Solidarity Campaign, labeled it a repression of democratic rights, stating there had been no consultation prior to this decision. Conversely, the Board of Deputies of British Jews praised the police intervention as necessary, following repeated calls for action.
Increased Security Measures
In light of recent events, police will enhance patrols around synagogues, Jewish schools, and community centers. They aim to foster a secure environment for Jewish communities while maintaining the right to protest peacefully.
The police have committed to revising their approach based on ongoing community concerns and the evolving landscape of public safety in the wake of escalating antisemitism.
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