What’s happening:
London witnessed over 105,000 individuals marching through its streets in a powerful display against antisemitism and in solidarity with Israel, following a spike in antisemitic incidents and an attack on Israel.
Why it matters:
This historic march is a significant gesture of unity and support for the Jewish community, marking one of the largest such demonstrations since the 1936 Battle of Cable Street. It signals a strong stance against rising antisemitism and reaffirms the commitment to combating hate and prejudice.
The big picture:
The National March Against Antisemitism, organized by the Campaign Against Antisemitism, included prominent figures such as former Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis. The demonstration saw a diverse crowd, waving Israeli and UK flags, emphasizing peace and unity over violence.
By the numbers:
The Community Security Trust reported a 500% increase in antisemitic incidents within a month, including assaults and threats, highlighting the urgency of addressing this issue.
Key quotes:
An Israel supporter highlighted the peaceful nature of the protest, saying, “No one here is screaming for the death of all Muslims. No one is calling to destroy Gaza, Ramallah, or Jenin.” The supporter emphasized the inclusive and non-violent atmosphere of the march.
Notable speeches:
Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis thanked the marchers for their support and stressed the importance of historical facts over social media narratives. Television mathematician Rachel Riley spoke about global support for the Jewish community and the significance of the UK’s participation.
Law enforcement actions:
Prior to the march, police barred English Defense League founder Tommy Robinson, known for his far-right and Islamophobic views, from attending the event. He was later arrested to prevent potential disruption.
What’s next:
The march has set a precedent for unity against antisemitism, with hopes that such solidarity will continue to grow and lead to further action against prejudice and hate.
This story was first published on foxnews.