Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has issued a stark warning to Iran, stating that efforts to incite violence and hatred in the United Kingdom “will not be tolerated.” This comes amid suspicions that Tehran may be backing a series of antisemitic attacks, including last week’s stabbing in Golders Green, which has heightened concerns about rising antisemitism.
Strong Stance on Foreign Interference
Speaking at a Downing Street roundtable with community leaders, government ministers, and police chiefs, Starmer emphasised that there would be “consequences” if Iran is found to be behind some of the incidents. He described the situation as a “crisis” and announced that new legislation would be fast-tracked to address “malign threats.”
“One of the lines of inquiry is whether a foreign state has been behind some of these incidents,” Starmer stated. “We are investigating all possibilities, and we are clear that these actions will have consequences if that proves to be the case. Our message to Iran or any other country that might seek to promote violence, hatred, or division is that it will not be tolerated.”
New Measures and Funding
The government has pledged to introduce a new law targeting state-backed groups, amid calls for the proscription of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Additionally, Starmer announced a “zero tolerance” approach to antisemitism on university campuses, requiring institutions to publish data on the problem and the steps taken to combat it. The Arts Council will also be expected to withdraw funding from any individuals or organisations found promoting antisemitism.
An independent audit of how antisemitism allegations are handled has been ordered, with Starmer warning against complacency and weak enforcement. Meanwhile, Jewish communities in England will receive an extra £1 million in government funding for safety work and projects to counter antisemitic narratives.
Ongoing Investigations
As the meeting took place, the Metropolitan Police confirmed that counter-terror officers are investigating an arson attack at a former synagogue in Tower Hamlets, east London, further underscoring the heightened security concerns.
