Metropolitan Police patrols have been urgently stepped up across London in the wake of the Hamas-Israel war as fears mount Islamists could be inspired to target British Jews.
Home Secretary Suella Braverman has said she expects the police to “use the full force of the law” against displays of support for Hamas after videos emerged of people appearing to celebrate the attack on Israel on London’s streets.
Immigration minister Robert Jenrick, shared a video posted on social media by Countdown presenter Rachel Riley, after Hamas launched its biggest attack in years on Israel.
Riley posted on X on Saturday saying she passed two cars in west London driving with Palestinian flags flying from each window, “bouncing up and down in their cars” and “seemingly celebrating like they were having a party”.
She later posted a video which showed people waving Palestinian flags, beeping car horns and clapping in Acton.
Home Secretary Suella Braverman, whose husband Rael has spoken about his Jewish faith, posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, on Sunday morning, saying: “Whenever Israel is attacked, Islamists and other racists use Israeli defensive measures as a pretext to stir up hatred against British Jews.
“There must be zero tolerance for antisemitism or glorification of terrorism on the streets of Britain.
“I expect the police to use the full force of the law against displays of support for Hamas, other proscribed terrorist groups or attempts to intimidate British Jews.”
Rachel Riley said on X it was a “dangerous” and “terrifying” time for Jews around the world.
Mr Jenrick shared Riley’s post on X, the site formerly known as Twitter, and said: “These disgusting people are glorifying the terrorist activities of Hamas, a proscribed organisation.
“There is no place for this in the UK. I trust metpoliceuk will be taking this seriously.”
In a statement, Scotland Yard said: “We are aware of a number of incidents, including those that have been shared on social media, in relation to the ongoing conflict in Israel and the border with Gaza.
“The Met has increased policing patrols across parts of London in order to provide a visible presence and reassurance to our communities.
“We remain in contact with partners and community leaders to listen to any concerns. Anyone who experiences threatening behaviour or is worried about their safety is urged to contact police.
“We are aware that the ongoing conflict may lead to protests over the coming days. We will ensure that an appropriate policing plan is in place in order to balance the right to protest against any disruption to Londoners.”
The Community Security Trust (CST), a charity that protects British Jews from antisemitism and related threats, said it has been in discussion with the Met Police and Government since Saturday morning to ensure the “appropriate levels of security and policing are in place in Jewish community areas”.
Dave Rich, director of policy at CST, said: “Experience tells us that as conflicts in Israel and Gaza escalate, we will see a spike in antisemitic hate crimes in Britain.”
