Green Party Faces Internal Antisemitism Row Ahead of Elections

Published: 02 May 2026. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online
The Green Party of England and Wales is facing growing internal tension over allegations of antisemitism and disputes surrounding the Israel–Palestine conflict, just as the party experiences rapid growth in membership and rising electoral expectations.

The party, which has recently expanded to more than 220,000 members, has been boosted since the leadership of Zack Polanski, who became leader in September. His “eco-populism” approach has attracted many new supporters, including former Labour voters, and improved the party’s performance in opinion polls.

However, the rapid expansion has also exposed divisions within the party. Some members and activists say the party’s internal systems are struggling to deal with complaints and ideological disagreements, particularly on sensitive issues such as antisemitism and foreign policy.

Elise Benjamin, a long-standing Green Party member and former councillor in Oxford, said the party’s current situation requires urgent attention. She warned that the complaints process may no longer be suitable for such a large membership and growing political influence.

Concerns have increased in recent months as several candidates and members have faced accusations related to antisemitic comments or social media activity. In one case, two Green Party candidates standing in Lambeth, London, were arrested on suspicion of stirring up racial hatred online. Another candidate in Newcastle faced criticism over past posts, which she later described as isolated comments taken out of context.

The debate has intensified following recent violence in Golders Green, London, where two Jewish men were stabbed. The incident has increased political sensitivity around antisemitism and public statements made by politicians.

Party leader Zack Polanski also became involved in controversy after sharing a social media post questioning police conduct during the Golders Green incident. He later apologised, saying he had a responsibility to reduce tensions during a sensitive period.

The wider dispute within the party reflects long-standing disagreements over how to define Zionism and how criticism of Israel should be expressed. Some members see Zionism as a legitimate movement supporting a Jewish homeland, while others describe it as a political ideology linked to Palestinian displacement.

These disagreements have become more visible since the outbreak of war between Israel and Hamas in October 2023 and the subsequent conflict in Gaza, which has significantly influenced political debate in the UK.

The party has also been divided over proposals to describe Zionism as a form of racism. Supporters of the motion say it is intended to highlight Palestinian rights and promote equality. Critics argue it could exclude Jewish members and increase internal division.

Some Jewish members within the party, including those in the Jewish Greens group, say they have tried to raise concerns but feel their voices are not always heard. Others, however, argue that allegations of antisemitism are sometimes exaggerated or used for political purposes.

Senior Green politicians have mostly avoided public conflict, focusing instead on the party’s recent electoral progress. The Greens have gained support in several local areas and are aiming for further gains in upcoming elections, particularly in London.

Despite internal disagreements, the party continues to present itself as united on environmental and social justice issues. However, the growing debate over antisemitism and foreign policy remains a major challenge that could affect its public image.

As elections approach, the Green Party faces increasing pressure to resolve internal disputes while maintaining its recent political momentum. The outcome of these tensions may play a significant role in shaping the party’s future direction.