British Jews consider leaving amid rising anti-semitism

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  • 70% of British Jews conceal their Jewish identity in public.

  • The atmosphere in Britain now feels like Nazi Germany.

LONDON-British Jews are facing a dilemma of whether to stay in their homeland or seek refuge elsewhere, as antisemitism reaches alarming levels in the country.

Many members of the Jewish community have expressed their fear and anguish over the growing hostility and discrimination they face from various segments of society. Some have drawn parallels to the horrors of Nazi Germany, which their ancestors endured during the Holocaust.

One Jewish resident in London, who wished to remain anonymous, said: “The atmosphere in Britain now feels like Nazi Germany. We are witnessing a resurgence of hatred and bigotry that echoes the darkest chapters of history.”

According to the Community Security Trust, a charity that monitors antisemitism and provides security for the Jewish community in Britain, there were 1,668 antisemitic incidents recorded in 2023, the highest annual total ever. The incidents ranged from verbal abuse and harassment to physical assaults and vandalism.

The spike in anti-semitism has also been fueled by the rise of extremist groups and movements, such as the far-right, neo-Nazis, and anti-Zionists, who often target Jews for their religious or political views.

As a result, many British Jews are contemplating leaving the country for safer destinations, such as Israel, the United States, or Canada. Some have already made the move, while others are preparing to do so.

However, not all British Jews are willing to give up on their homeland, where they have lived for generations. Some are determined to stay and fight against antisemitism, with the support of community leaders and advocates.

They are also calling for the government and the society at large to take decisive action to combat antisemitism and protect the rights and dignity of the Jewish minority. They stress the need for solidarity and unity to preserve the values of tolerance and inclusion upon which Britain prides itself.