Arabic version: قادة دينيون يتحدون ضد تصاعد معاداة السامية في المملكة المتحدة
Religious leaders from various faiths have come together to address the alarming rise of antisemitism in the UK, declaring it “a problem for all of us to fix.” This open letter, which also garnered support from prominent figures in business, sports, and media, emphasizes solidarity with the Jewish community following a series of violent incidents targeting Jews.
According to BBC News, the letter was organized by the Together Coalition and highlights the recent attacks on synagogues and Jewish individuals, including the stabbing of two Jewish men in Golders Green, north London, a fortnight ago. The signatories, which include leaders from Christian, Muslim, Hindu, Sikh, and Zoroastrian communities, assert that the Jewish community belongs in the UK just as much as any other group.
The letter describes the violence faced by Jewish people as a “nightmare from another time,” calling for collective action to combat this rising tide of hatred. Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis responded positively, stating that the letter serves as a strong rebuttal to extremists targeting the Jewish community. He expressed hope that this initiative would inspire further action across various sectors of society.
Recent violent incidents have raised serious concerns, including a car ramming and stabbing attack outside a Manchester synagogue last October, resulting in two deaths and three individuals left in a serious condition. Additionally, attacks on synagogues and Jewish community centers have increased, with incidents such as the arson of Hatzola ambulances in Golders Green earlier this year.
Brendan Cox, co-founder of the Together Coalition, emphasized that extremists aim to sow division among communities. He urged for unity against such attempts to target minorities. Julie Siddiqi, co-chair of the UK Muslim Network and a signatory of the letter, highlighted the shared experiences of hatred among different faiths, advocating for solidarity in tackling extremism together.
