Antisemitism monitor urges new British PM Burnham to prioritize fight against antisemitism

The Campaign Against Antisemitism is urging newly appointed British Prime Minister Andy Burnham to make combating antisemitism a central priority of his government, warning that Britain’s Jewish community faces an unprecedented security crisis.

In an open letter published as Burnham takes office, CAA Chief Executive Gideon Falter writes that British Jews live under constant threat, citing attacks on synagogues, Jewish schools, community institutions and individuals.

“The crisis has gone on so long now … that it has become the new normal,” Falter warns, noting Jews have been disproportionately targeted by hate crimes after successive governments failed to confront the problem.

He urges Burnham to adopt stronger policies against antisemitism, saying security measures such as increased policing and protective barriers are insufficient without action against those responsible. CAA has a detailed plan that it would be happy to present directly, Falter adds.

Burnham has expressed strong positions regarding Israel, saying earlier this month that Britain must do more to pressure Israel over its treatment of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, including possibly banning weapons sales. Britain’s Board of Deputies and Jewish Leadership Council have expressed “significant concerns” over the comments.