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Monday 23/02/2026

Rising Antisemitic Threats Leave Jewish Communities in Fear

Diverse group standing united in front of a synagogue and beach
Sofia RomanoSofia Romano

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Jewish communities in Birmingham and Sydney are experiencing increased antisemitic threats, with hate crimes in Birmingham nearly doubling since 2022.
  • A terrorist attack at a Hanukkah event in Bondi Beach, Sydney, left 15 people dead, heightening fears within the Jewish community.
  • Birmingham has seen a rise in public order offences, with incidents including threats and verbal assaults against Jewish individuals.
  • Community leaders in Sydney urge resilience and pride in Jewish identity despite the dangers, emphasizing cultural continuity.
  • West Midlands Police are actively investigating reported hate crimes and adjusting patrol plans to address community fears.

Jewish communities in Birmingham and Sydney are grappling with a surge in antisemitic threats and violence, prompting fears for safety and calls for resilience. In Birmingham, Jewish students report facing weekly incidents of abuse, with hate crimes in the West Midlands nearly doubling from 27 to 53 since 2022. This rise is attributed to an increase in public order offences, alongside incidents of arson, criminal damage, and violence.

One alarming incident involved synagogue members receiving threats of violence, while students were followed home and subjected to verbal abuse. "I'd much rather be [in Israel] in a bomb shelter than here in Birmingham," one student remarked, highlighting the severity of the situation. West Midlands Police have assured the community of ongoing investigations and enhanced patrols to address these concerns.

Sydney's Jewish Community Struggles with Aftermath of Terrorist Attack

In Sydney, the Jewish community is mourning the loss of 15 individuals killed in a terrorist attack during a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach. The attack has sparked a debate on how to balance safety with the desire to maintain a visible Jewish presence. Rabbi Ritchie Moss, speaking at the funeral of Rabbi Eli Schlanger, one of the victims, urged the community to remain proud and loving in their Jewish identity.

Rabbi Alon Meltzer, who attended the funeral, emphasized the importance of cultural pride despite the dangers. "Our most important thing is to never give up our Yiddish culture," he told his daughter. The attack has forced community leaders to reconsider security measures for future events, with some vendors expressing concerns about participating in public gatherings.

Community Resilience Amid Rising Hate Crimes

Both Birmingham and Sydney's Jewish communities are navigating the challenges of increased antisemitic threats with a focus on resilience and cultural pride. In Birmingham, police engagement with local Jewish communities is informing security strategies, while in Sydney, community leaders are advocating for continued public expressions of faith.

As these communities confront the realities of religious intolerance and hate crimes, their leaders emphasize the importance of standing firm in their cultural identity. The events in Birmingham and Sydney underscore the need for vigilance and solidarity in the face of rising antisemitic threats.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

The rise in antisemitic threats in Birmingham and Sydney could lead to increased security measures and community initiatives aimed at fostering resilience and cultural pride. In Birmingham, police efforts to engage with the Jewish community may result in more effective prevention and response strategies. Meanwhile, in Sydney, the community's emphasis on cultural continuity could inspire broader discussions on religious tolerance and safety.

Experts suggest that these incidents may prompt legislative reviews and policy changes to better protect minority communities. As Jewish communities worldwide grapple with similar challenges, the experiences in Birmingham and Sydney could serve as a catalyst for global conversations on combating antisemitism and promoting inclusivity.

Images from the Web

Additional article image
Image Source: Elliot Ludvig
Additional article image
Image Source: Elliot Ludvig
Additional article image
Image Source: Elliot Ludvig
Additional article image
Image Source: Elliot Ludvig