British Orthodox rabbi; Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth
Israel has ordered the closure of the UK consulate in East Jerusalem within 30 days after Britain announced sanctions on illegal West Bank settlements. Britain has warned it will expel one Israeli diplomat for each British consulate post closed — up to 27 — if Israel follows through. Talks, including a visit by UK national security adviser Jonathan Powell, have not produced a deal.
The Green Party at its Brighton convention has passed a motion calling Zionism a form of racism and backing a single democratic Palestinian state in historic Palestine with equal rights for all. The vote was 1,022 to 813, prompting condemnation from Jewish groups and Israel’s government.
The Church of England’s General Synod has voted to hear Kairos Palestine II, a document describing Israel as a colonial power and Gaza’s war as genocide. The motion seeks to listen to Palestinian Christian voices and engage with the report, amid criticism from Jewish groups that the language could strain Christian‑Jewish relations.
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has defended offering a former neo‑Nazi, Joshua Bonehill‑Paine, a role advising on culture and integration, amid protests from Jewish groups and victims. Bonehill‑Paine has withdrawn from standing in Crewkerne South for Somerset Council next year and may take an advisory position instead; critics question vetting and the impact on victims.
A memorial service in Heaton Park, Manchester, recalls the 2025 attack on the synagogue that killed Melvin Cravitz and Adrian Daulby. Officials include Chief Rabbi Mirvis and Communities Secretary Rayner. Attendees stress resilience amid rising antisemitism and call for action to address core problems.
The UK has announced a ban on imports and services linked to Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank and has coordinated measures with several allies. Israel has closed the British consulate in East Jerusalem and imposed retaliatory diplomatic steps. British Jewish leaders are split and ministers are defending the move as necessary to protect the two‑state prospect.
As the High Holy Days approach, Jewish communities confront rising antisemitic threats and political tensions. Leaders urge preparedness over hope, while incidents and surveys show an uptick in fear and division since 9/11’s 25th anniversary.
Britain has announced a comprehensive sanctions regime targeting Israeli settlements in the West Bank. Senior Masorti and Liberal Jewish leaders have voiced support, while Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis has condemned the move. The policy aims to push for a two-state solution amid rising tensions over settlement expansion and violence.