The Met announce enhanced measures to protect Jewish communities

The Metropolitan Police say they will be more assertive in the way they deal with antisemitic protests across the capital.

It comes in the wake of the terror attack on Bondi Beach which targeted the Jewish community, killing 15 and the terror attack at a Manchester Synagogue in October.

The force say visible patrols and protective security measures around synagogues, schools, and community venues have been stepped up and they are intensifying investigations into hate crime.

In a joint statement issued by the Met Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley and the Chief Constable of Greater Manchester Police, Sir Stephen Watson, they say current laws are inadequate and are welcoming the fact that the Home Secretary has asked Lord Ken Macdonald KC to review the current public order and hate crime legislation.

They add that "words and chants have real world consequences."

"We know communities are concerned about placards and chants such as “globalise the intifada” and those using it at future protest or in a targeted way should expect the Met and GMP to take action. Violent acts have taken place, the context has changed - words have meaning and consequence. We will act decisively and make arrests."

The two forces say they intend to "create a hostile environment for offenders and a safer environment for Jewish communities, while protecting lawful protest."

"All members of society have a responsibility to consider their impact on others – it is possible to protest in support of Palestinian people without intimidating Jewish communities or breaking the law.

We want you to hear this clearly: we see you, we hear you, and we stand with you. Your safety and wellbeing matter to all of us. Please keep talking to us and to each other; report incidents promptly; and make use of our dedicated neighbourhood teams."

"Hanukkah reminds us that light endures, even in the darkest times. We will continue to work night and day to keep you safe."

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