Antisemitism in the UK has seen a significant increase, almost tripling in a year, according to a report by the Community Security Trust (CST). The charity recorded more than 5,500 antisemitic incidents in the UK between October 7, 2023, and September 30, marking the highest total for any 12-month period. This figure is three times higher than the previous year, which saw 1,830 incidents reported.
Most of the recorded incidents involved abusive behaviour, with 4,583 cases, while threats accounted for 401 incidents, and assault for 302. The CST also highlighted one incident of extreme violence. London recorded the highest number of incidents at 3,167, followed by Manchester with 729, and West Yorkshire with 642. The charity reported over 1,400 incidents in October 2023 alone, and more than 200 incidents have been recorded every month since then.
In response to the growing concern over antisemitism, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has promised to combat this resurgence. He made these remarks during a speech at a Holocaust Education Trust appeal dinner, stating that his government would actively address and fight against antisemitism. Starmer pledged to ensure every child in England learns about the Holocaust by making it a mandatory subject in schools. Additionally, he committed £2.2 million to support the Lessons From Auschwitz project, which provides education about the Holocaust through student courses and visits to concentration camps.
The Prime Minister’s strong stance comes as the UK has witnessed a surge in antisemitic incidents following the Hamas attacks on Israel. With a firm commitment to combatting hatred and discrimination, the government aims to address this worrying trend and educate future generations about the importance of tolerance and understanding.