In the wake of recent arson attacks on synagogues in north London, a leading Jewish figure has called on anti-racists to extend the same solidarity to Jews as they would to other minorities facing prejudice and violence. David Davidi-Brown, chief executive of an organisation supporting Israeli human rights NGOs, wrote in a personal account that Jewish people in Britain are feeling afraid, isolated and ignored.
Last week, Finchley Reform Synagogue, a synagogue in Kenton, and a building that previously housed Jewish charities in Hendon were targeted in arson attacks. While no substantial physical harm was caused, the emotional impact has been profound. Davidi-Brown, who was married at the Finchley synagogue, said the attacks felt close to home and highlighted the real dangers Jews face globally.
According to Davidi-Brown, last year was the deadliest for Jewish communities worldwide in three decades, with 20 lives lost in antisemitic attacks in 2025, including incidents at Bondi beach and Heaton Park synagogue in Manchester. He noted that some British Jews are considering leaving the UK due to rising hatred and violence, and parents are anxious about sending children to Jewish schools for fear of bullying.
Davidi-Brown expressed dismay that progressives and anti-racists have not always confronted anti-Jewish racism. He referenced the online response to the Labour party's Yom HaShoah post, which included Holocaust denial and conspiracy theories. He urged allies to believe Jews when they describe racism, understand how antisemitism manifests in relation to Israel, and not conflate Jews with the actions of the Israeli government.
He also highlighted challenges in policing antisemitism, calling for a continued visible police presence in Jewish areas and relentless pursuit of perpetrators. Quick arrests have been made following the recent attacks, but he stressed the need for ongoing vigilance.
