Antisemitic incidents in the UK have surged following the October 7 attacks and the ensuing war in Gaza, leaving Jewish communities in Greater Manchester and across the country living with a prevailing sense of dread.
- The Community Security Trust (CST) identified 3,700 antisemitic incidents last year.
- Greater Manchester is home to 30,000 Jews, the second-largest Jewish community in the UK.
- Recent violence includes a deadly attack at Heaton Park synagogue and arson attacks on London synagogues and charities.
Escalation of Antisemitism in the UK
Research by the Community Security Trust, which provides security and support to Jewish communities, indicates a significant increase in antisemitic incidents. Last year, the organization identified 3,700 such events.
These figures include a violent attack on October 2 at the Heaton Park synagogue in Crumpsall, which resulted in two deaths and three serious injuries.
Recent weeks have seen further escalation, including arson attacks at two London synagogues and a Jewish charity. Last month, four Jewish community ambulances were set on fire in north London.
Atmosphere of Fear in Greater Manchester
In Salford and Prestwich, residents describe antisemitism as having become “casual” and “normal.” Some individuals now hide their kippahs or wear hoods when entering certain areas to avoid targeting.
Community members on Leicester Road report regular abuse from passing drivers and passengers. One resident noted that while criticism of the Israeli government is acceptable, the situation “tips over” into antisemitism when that criticism is equated with Jewish people as a whole.
Angela Epstein, a Manchester-based journalist and broadcaster, said the rise in incidents has left many “looking over our shoulders.” She described a prevailing sense of unease that has forced a vibrant community to second-guess their daily decisions.
Community Resilience and Political Frustration
Rabbi Dovid Lewis of Bowdon Shul in Trafford stated that he is far more cautious regarding the safety of his children and community. Despite this, he emphasized that his family has been in the country for generations and will not let antisemites dictate their lives.
Raphi Bloom of the Jewish Representative Council of Greater Manchester described a “tsunami of Jew hate” over the last two years. He noted that Jews are the only religious minority in Britain forced to send children to schools and organizations behind high walls and security gates.
Bloom criticized the government for providing funding for fences and gates while failing to address the root causes and chronic nature of the hate. Some community members expressed a feeling that political leadership, specifically Keir Starmer, does not genuinely care about their safety.
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