Miliband rejects chief rabbi's claim British Jews in greater danger after sanctions move
Also reported by Guardian World
Summary
UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband disagreed with the UK Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis about the risks to British Jews following UK sanctions on Israeli settlements in the West Bank. The sanctions aim to oppose settlements considered illegal under international law, but the move has led to debate within the UK Jewish community and a diplomatic dispute with Israel.Key Facts
- The UK government imposed sanctions on trade with Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank.
- UK Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis said the sanctions put British Jews at greater risk and called the move a "truly dark day."
- Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband, a British Jew, rejected the chief rabbi’s view and said blaming British Jews for Israel’s actions is antisemitism.
- Antisemitic incidents in the UK increased by 21% in the first half of 2026 compared to 2025, according to the Community Security Trust.
- Different UK Jewish groups have varied reactions: the Jewish Leadership Council criticized the sanctions; Na'amod and Yachad supported them.
- The sanctions damaged UK-Israel relations; Israel closed the British consulate in East Jerusalem and banned 11 British MPs and activists.
- Israeli officials suggested denying entry to some British-linked organizations and individuals, including aid groups like Oxfam and Save the Children.
- The UK Board of Deputies expressed concern that the sanctions might worsen community tensions and raised security worries during a major Jewish holiday.
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