Scotland Yard has issued a stark warning against a horrifying wave of antisemitic hatred sweeping through London, revealing an unprecedented 1,350% increase in offences targeting Jewish communities.
Commander Paul Trevers, head of the Met's Central East Command, described the surge following Hamas's atrocities in Israel as 'completely unacceptable' and vowed to deploy every available resource to protect the capital's Jewish population.
Unprecedented Spike in Hate Crimes
The Met's public appeal comes after recording 105 antisemitic incidents between September 30 and October 13—a staggering increase from just seven during the same period last year. The force has made 21 arrests and continues to hunt those responsible for what Trevers called 'abhorrent' behaviour.
Protecting Communities
In response to the crisis, the Met has:
- Increased patrols in Jewish communities across London
- Enhanced visibility at synagogues, schools, and cultural centres
- Worked closely with the Community Security Trust (CST) to monitor threats
- Urged victims and witnesses to report all incidents immediately
National Context of Rising Tensions
The London outbreak reflects a disturbing national pattern. The CST reported 89 antisemitic incidents across the UK on Monday alone—the highest number ever recorded in a single day. Commander Trevers emphasised that 'there is no place for hate in our city' and assured communities that robust action would be taken against perpetrators.
The police appeal specifically addressed recent incidents where vehicles displayed pro-Palestinian symbols while driving through Jewish neighbourhoods, creating fear and intimidation. While acknowledging the right to protest, Trevers made clear that behaviour crossing into harassment or hate crime would not be tolerated.
London's Jewish communities have been urged to remain vigilant while the Met continues its intensified efforts to combat this alarming surge in antisemitic hatred.
