Jewish leaders in Greater Manchester have expressed their support for a new initiative by the Greater Manchester Police (GMP) aimed at combating anti-Semitism. Under this new directive, protesters who chant “globalise the intifada” or display related placards at public demonstrations will face arrest. While this move has been welcomed by many within the Jewish community, it has also drawn criticism from pro-Palestinian groups who argue it infringes on free speech.
The community in Greater Manchester is the largest Jewish population outside of London, and the city has seen a rise in pro-Palestinian marches. Supporters of the crackdown, including Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis, view it as a necessary measure to counteract what they describe as “violent incitement” against Jews. Rabbi Mirvis stated that the decision is “an important step towards challenging the hateful rhetoric” that has surfaced in recent protests.
In a statement, Chief Constable of GMP Sir Stephen Watson highlighted the unique challenges faced by Jewish children in the region, noting that they often attend schools secured by guards and routinely monitored by police. He remarked, “Our Jewish community has put up with a way of life, in our country, today, that nobody else has to put up with.”
The new policy comes in the wake of violent terrorist attacks, including incidents targeting the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Crumpsall and another in Australia. Following these events, GMP joined forces with the Metropolitan Police to announce a more aggressive stance against inflammatory language used during protests. According to Sir Stephen, the use of terms such as “globalise the intifada” has “real-world consequences.”
“We know communities are concerned about placards and chants,” he said. “Those using it at future protests should expect the Met and GMP to take action.” He emphasized that the context has changed and that police would be more assertive in their response to such expressions.
While Jewish leaders welcomed the announcement and urged GMP to act swiftly, the Palestine Solidarity Campaign condemned it as an act of political repression. They argue that political expression in support of Palestinian rights is being unjustly targeted. Ben Jamal, Director of the Palestine Solidarity Campaign, criticized the lack of consultation with groups representing Palestinian interests, stating that the term “intifada” signifies an uprising against injustice.
Jamal argued that the police’s interpretation of protests is problematic, especially given the historical context of the term. He added that the recent violence against Jewish individuals should not justify further restrictions on democratic rights or free speech within the UK.
The Jewish Representative Council of Greater Manchester also voiced support for the crackdown. CEO Marc Levy described the decision as “welcome news,” asserting that there should be equal enforcement against inflammatory chants as against those involved in the Palestine Action movement. The Jewish Leadership Council labeled the slogan “globalise the intifada” as a call for terrorism against Jews, urging police to act decisively.
In the wake of rising anti-Semitism and tensions surrounding the conflict in the Middle East, police officials have acknowledged an increase in both online abuse and hate crimes targeting Jewish communities. Sir Stephen described these trends as “deeply alarming,” stating, “These trends create real fear and disrupt daily life.”
The Community Security Trust (CST), which focuses on protecting Jewish communities, has also expressed concern about the rise in anti-Semitism. They described recent attacks as “abhorrent” and highlighted the fear these incidents have instilled within the community. The CST welcomed the police’s announcement, emphasizing the necessity of swift action against violent and hateful rhetoric at protests.
On the legal front, Lionel Idan, Chief Crown Prosecutor and hate crime lead for the Crown Prosecution Service, confirmed that they are actively working with police to prosecute anti-Semitic hate crimes. He noted that the government is reviewing current laws surrounding public order and hate crimes, acknowledging that existing legislation may be inadequate.
As the situation develops, both law enforcement and community leaders in Greater Manchester are calling for a balanced approach that ensures safety while respecting the right to protest peacefully.
