The stabbing of two Jewish men in Golders Green today is deeply shocking and a stark reminder of the very real danger antisemitism poses on our streets.
My thoughts are with the victims, their loved ones, and the wider Jewish community.
No one should be targeted because of their faith.
We'll get the usual statements of condemnation after Golders Green. But the simple truth is that for years we've had weekly marches through central London in which anti-Semitism has openly flourished. And the Government had stood back and done nothing.
"We pray for a speedy recovery of the victims stabbed earlier today in Golders Green in the latest vile antisemitic attack. Our thoughts are with them and their families.
"Once again, Jews are being targeted on the streets of the UK simply for being Jewish. This must stop now! Heaton Park, Hatzola ambulances, Finchley Reform Synagogue, the old offices of Jewish Futures, Kenton United Synagogue… the list keeps growing.
"Why is this not being treated as a national emergency? I again call on the government to recognise what is clear to so many: this is an epidemic of anti-Jewish hate.
"Thank you to the heroes of Shomrim, Hatzola, the police, CST and the brave members of the public who acted quickly to apprehend this horrible individual.
"When people stand on the streets of the UK screaming "Globalise the intifada" - this is the result. The intifada has truly been globalised and British Jews are paying the price."
Saul Taylor
President
United Synagogue
Today the Prime Minister visited Kenton United Synagogue where he met with the Chief Rabbi, Kenton’s Rabbi Yehuda Black and Chair, Ruth Topper, together with Kenton members and our President, Saul Taylor, CEO, Jo Grose and COO, David Collins.
The Prime Minister came to show his support and solidarity after the arson attack over the weekend.
Sir Keir listened as Kenton’s Chair, Ruth Topper, recounted what it was like to be woken in the middle of the night to be told her synagogue had been firebombed and to see her shul cordoned off by police tape. One community member said that their father fought fascism 80 years ago and told his children they were now secure in Britain - but that is no longer the case. Members expressed fears for the safety of their children and grandchildren.
We explained to the Prime Minister that the community won’t be cowed but some members feel anxious and we don’t want to keep building ever higher walls around our shuls. We are committed to protecting our staff and ensuring our members can live full Jewish lives but the ever-increasing cost of security – which has risen to over a million pounds a year beyond the government funding we receive via CST – means charitable funds are being spent on guards and CCTV equipment rather than Jewish engagement.
We also explained to the Prime Minister that the Jewish community wants and expects actions. The proscription of the IRGC – a terrorist group responsible for attacks around the world – seems a basic bare minimum. We also raised outlawing the Muslim Brotherhood and doing more to stop hate preachers.
We thanked the Prime Minister for joining us and we will continue to ensure our community’s concerns are heard at the highest levels of government to enable Jewish life in this country to thrive.
After October 7, Israel was told not to respond, because it might make Hamas “hate us more.”
Only a couple of weeks later, Israel was told to stop fighting and leave 251 hostages behind, because our response was “disproportionate.”
Last June, after Israel preemptively struck Iran, following years of warning that we would never allow a nuclear threat, the world was outraged again.
And now, after years of warnings and despite a war and countless attempts to reach agreements, Iran continues to advance its nuclear program and deadly missiles, so the United States and Israel acted before Iran could carry out its threats.
Well, I’m glad we didn’t wait for the world’s permission to defend ourselves.
Because, newsflash: the world was never going to give it.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has welcomed the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
"I think we are all better off with him gone and with the nuclear and ballistic capability being beaten and degraded as it is as we speak,” he said.
Following a drone strike on the British base in Cyprus, France will deploy missile and air defense units to the island, the Cyprus News Agency reports.
🚨 NEW: The UK is focusing on "de-escalation" after Iranian drone attacks on RAF Akrotiri
No 10 has indicated the UK is not currently planning a direct millitary response
Asara b’Tevet isn’t about destruction—it’s about the siege that started it all. Big tragedies begin with small steps: restrictions, pressure, complacency. Its message? Stay aware of your environment. In 2025, that’s more relevant than ever.
We are thrilled to announce that Mill Hill East Jewish Community now has a permanent home at Canada Villa.
Last week, after the acquisition, David Collins, our Chief Operating Officer, reflected that it is especially meaningful for this milestone to happen at Chanukah, marking the anniversary of the Jews reclaiming the Beit Hamikdash as a space to be Jewish.
After renting the space since 2016, this secures a long-term base for a growing community and marks the start of an exciting new chapter, with plans to develop Canada Villa into a centre that will serve MHEJC for generations to come!
The irony is striking. All year some bash Jewish sovereignty, then wish “Happy Chanukah.” But Chanukah isn’t about doughnuts—it’s about Jewish sovereignty in Jerusalem. In the 2nd century BCE, Jews reclaimed the Temple from Greek rule and restored independence.
Statement from Saul Taylor, President of the United Synagogue, following the horrific terror attack in Sydney.
Among the victims is the first cousin of Rabbi Hershi Vogel of Ealing United Synagogue and Rabbi Mendy Vogel of Western Marble Arch Synagogue.
“This is the only country where we were told it is unsafe for us to stay in the city where we were playing the match.”
Jack Angelides, CEO of Maccabi Tel Aviv, tells #R4Today there needs to be more ‘introspection’ on why its fans were banned from the match against Aston Villa.
They want to divide us but they will not succeed! It’s never been about religion but everything to do with hooligans! Politicians and media should be ashamed for their utter conflation!
This is the wrong decision.
We will not tolerate antisemitism on our streets.
The role of the police is to ensure all football fans can enjoy the game, without fear of violence or intimidation.
https://t.co/8aBeqE4qbA
I welcome the news that Maccabi Tel Aviv fans will not be permitted to watch the match at Aston Villa! Well done to all those that signed our petition!
Deeply saddened by the passing of Rabbi Hauer. I had the privilege of meeting him several times. His wisdom, warmth, and vision for Klal Yisrael left a lasting impact. A massive loss for the Jewish people. Baruch Dayan HaEmet.
With tears in our eyes and hearts breaking, we share the devastating news of the loss of our beloved brother, rabbi, partner, friend, and Executive Vice President Rabbi Moshe Hauer, zt”l.
Rabbi Hauer was a true talmid chacham, a master teacher and communicator, the voice of Torah to the Orthodox community and the voice of Orthodoxy to the world. He personified what it means to be a Torah Jew and took nothing more seriously than his role of sharing the joy of Jewish life with our community and beyond.
Rabbi Hauer’s leadership was marked by unwavering dedication, deep compassion, and a vision rooted in faith in Hashem, integrity, and love for Klal Yisrael. Whether through his inspiring words, thoughtful counsel, powerful advocacy, or quiet acts of kindness, Rabbi Hauer uplifted those around him and made an impact on every person he encountered.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family. May they be comforted among the mourners of Zion and Yerushalayim.
At this difficult time, we ask that you join us in remembering Rabbi Hauer, zt”l, by continuing to embody the values he upheld and by committing ourselves to continuing the legacy of Torah, chesed, and unity that he championed so passionately.
Funeral and shiva details to follow.
Baruch Dayan HaEmet.