Published: 05 December 2025. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online
Jew-hatred is “running amok” in Britain, according to the United States’ envoy tasked with combating anti-Semitism, who issued a stark warning about rising hostility towards Jewish communities on both sides of the Atlantic. The remarks, delivered during a high-profile visit to London, have intensified debate over the scale of the problem and the responsibility of governments to respond decisively.
The comments came from Donald Trump’s appointed envoy on anti-Semitism, who described the current climate as deeply troubling. Speaking at a policy forum attended by diplomats, faith leaders and security experts, the envoy said that recent incidents in Britain reflected a broader surge in anti-Jewish hatred that demands urgent action.
While acknowledging that the United Kingdom has historically been a country where Jewish communities have flourished, the envoy warned that the situation had deteriorated sharply in recent months. “We are seeing anti-Semitism running amok in places where it should never take root,” the official said, pointing to incidents of vandalism, harassment and online abuse.
British authorities have recorded a rise in reported anti-Semitic incidents over the past year, particularly in the wake of geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Community leaders say Jewish schools, synagogues and cultural institutions have faced heightened security threats, prompting increased police patrols and protective measures.
The envoy emphasised that anti-Semitism often mutates and adapts, spreading rapidly through social media platforms and extremist networks. “Hatred travels faster than ever before,” the official said, arguing that digital platforms must bear greater responsibility for curbing incitement and misinformation.
The remarks have sparked mixed reactions in the UK. Some Jewish advocacy groups welcomed the intervention, saying it underscored the seriousness of the issue and the need for international solidarity. They argue that rising hostility has left many British Jews feeling vulnerable, particularly during periods of international conflict when tensions spill onto domestic streets.
However, some British political figures cautioned against what they described as sweeping characterisations of the country. They insisted that while anti-Semitism remains a grave concern, Britain retains robust legal frameworks and active community initiatives aimed at combating hate crimes.
Under UK law, anti-Semitic abuse and incitement to racial hatred are criminal offences. Police forces across England and Wales have repeatedly pledged zero tolerance for hate crimes. Government ministers have also reiterated commitments to the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of anti-Semitism, which has been adopted by many public bodies.
The envoy’s comments come at a politically sensitive moment. Transatlantic relations have seen renewed engagement on security and counter-extremism cooperation. By raising the issue publicly, the Trump administration signalled that combating anti-Semitism remains a priority of US foreign policy.
During the visit, the envoy met with British officials and representatives of Jewish organisations to discuss intelligence-sharing, education programmes and strategies to counter radicalisation. Discussions reportedly included enhanced cooperation between law enforcement agencies and monitoring of extremist networks.
Community leaders in London described the meeting as constructive but sobering. One representative noted that while Britain has strong civil society institutions, the scale and speed of online hatred pose unprecedented challenges. “The threats are not always visible until they escalate,” the representative said.
Human rights experts note that anti-Semitism, like other forms of hatred, often intensifies during periods of polarised political debate. The line between criticism of government policy and hostility towards a religious or ethnic group can become dangerously blurred. Analysts warn that political rhetoric must be handled with care to avoid inflaming tensions.
The envoy also highlighted educational initiatives as a critical tool in combating prejudice. Holocaust education, interfaith dialogue and youth engagement programmes were described as essential pillars in building resilience against extremist narratives. “We cannot rely on law enforcement alone,” the official said. “This is about culture, education and leadership.”
In Britain, several charities and watchdog groups monitor anti-Semitic incidents and provide support to victims. They have reported a surge in online harassment, including threats and conspiracy-driven content targeting Jewish individuals and institutions. Security funding for places of worship has been increased in recent years, reflecting official recognition of the threat environment.
Critics of the envoy’s language argue that phrases such as “running amok” risk oversimplifying a complex issue. They contend that while vigilance is necessary, alarmist framing could inadvertently amplify fear. Supporters counter that strong language is warranted when confronting hate crimes and that complacency poses a greater danger.
The broader international context cannot be ignored. Across Europe and North America, Jewish communities have reported spikes in hostility linked to geopolitical crises and domestic political tensions. Governments are grappling with how to balance free speech protections with efforts to curb hate speech and extremist propaganda.
As debate continues, one point commands near-universal agreement among policymakers and community leaders alike: anti-Semitism has no place in a democratic society. Whether through legislative enforcement, community engagement or international cooperation, addressing the resurgence of anti-Jewish hatred remains a pressing challenge.
The envoy’s warning has ensured that the issue will remain firmly in the public spotlight. For Britain, the task now is to demonstrate that vigilance, unity and effective policy can counter the forces of intolerance before they take deeper root.
























































































