UK Suffers One of Its Worst Years for Antisemitism in Decades

Over the course of 2024, more than 3,500 antisemitic incidents were reported across the UK, according to figures compiled by the Community Security Trust (CST). This surge in hateful acts, which range from abusive behavior to violent assaults and property vandalism against Jewish communities, is only surpassed by the record set in 2023 following the Hamas attack on Israel and subsequent military actions.

CST’s chief executive Mark Gardner described the year as one marked by persistent antisemitism, as international conflicts and domestic pro-Palestine protests coincided with a significant rise in attacks. The charity noted that nearly every month recorded over 200 incidents—a pattern previously seen only during periods of war involving Israel. The variety of incidents included violent assaults, direct threats to people and property, and numerous cases of abusive online and public behavior targeting Jewish individuals and facilities.

The report also highlighted specific regional statistics, with Greater London and Greater Manchester accounting for significant proportions of the recorded incidents, while other police areas such as West Yorkshire, Hertfordshire, and the West Midlands also saw considerable numbers. In response to these alarming trends, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper reiterated the government's commitment to combatting antisemitism and announced continued financial backing through the Jewish Community Protective Grant. Additionally, government advisers have called on the wider society to recognize and address the ongoing challenges faced by the Jewish community in the UK.