British chief rabbi at rally: UK’s ‘poisonous antisemitism has become normalized’

Speaking at a rally against antisemitism in London, UK Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis warns that antisemitism has become “normalized” across British society and urges the country to confront the rising tide of hatred.

Citing the Book of Psalms, Mirvis tells the rally that citizens must “turn away from that which is unacceptable and always to what is right,” arguing that it is now easy to see what is unacceptable. He mentions recent antisemitic incidents including an arson attack on a synagogue and the targeting of Jews in violent attacks, and makes note of security fences around Jewish institutions.

“It is unacceptable that poisonous antisemitism has become normalized in the UK,” he says, noting its presence in politics, the media, universities, schools, the arts, the National Health Service and on the streets.

Mirvis condemns social media platforms for allowing “Jew hatred” to spread and criticizes Iran for allegedly fomenting violence against British citizens.

“Why has the Iranian ambassador not been expelled?” he asks. A group that is reportedly linked to Iran has claimed responsibility for some of the attacks.

Mirvis praises the “silent majority” of non-Jewish Britons who have begun speaking out, saying their support shows that attacks on Jews are attacks on all of society.

“This moment should be seen as a potential turning point in history,” he says. “This is an opportunity for British society from now onwards to confront antisemitism at long last, and to deal with it effectively.”