BBUK statement on the war in the Middle East

On the third anniversary of the October 7 attacks in Israel, the largest massacre of Jews on one day since the Holocaust, B’nai B’rith UK mourns all the victims who were murdered in acts of unspeakable barbarism. We will never forget the horrors that unfolded as Hamas terrorists rampaged through southern Israel, slaying the innocent, destroying entire families, raping women and kidnapping children and the elderly. These were horrors on an appalling scale and they have left deep wounds in Israeli society. At the same time, the Hamas attacks have led to a tsunami of antisemitism around the world. For three years, Jews have been attacked, victimised, ostracised and harassed in public spaces, compounding the grief of October 7. We stand with the Israeli nation on this solemn day, mourn alongside her victims and hope that in time, the wounds can be healed. We also hope that there can soon be a better future for both Israelis and Palestinians, one that is truly based on security, prosperity and dignity. Dr Jeremy Havardi Director, Bureau of International Affairs

B'nai B'rith UK is appalled by the Green Party's adoption of an explicitly antisemitic resolution, which is now party policy, that equates Zionism with racism. In effect, the party has taken one of the central definitions of Jewish identity and declared it to be racist, putting them at loggerheads with the majority of Jews in the UK. The motion also calls for the destruction of Israel, denying the right of Jewish national self-determination, sanctifying mass violence and echoing the genocidal rhetoric of Hamas. That such a motion falls so close to the commemoration of the October 7 attacks is a further mark of shame. The party has since claimed that Jewish members are safe from discrimination and bigotry. But this rings hollow when a motion to safeguard those members from disciplinary proceedings for attending a synagogue or other Jewish organisation was decisively rejected. As the party is almost certainly in breach of the Equality Act, it is time to refer it to the Equality and Human Rights Commission for institutional racism. Until this resolution is rescinded, the party must be treated with the same contempt one would reserve for any far-right grouping. . Dr Jeremy Havardi Director, Bureau of International Affairs

BB International have just published the Fall 2026 edition of their IMPACT REPORT, which includes an introduction to new CEO Evan R. Bernstein Here is the full list of contents:

A message from the National President Welcome to the latest BBUK Newsletter. I hope it keeps you informed about our work in the UK and over-seas, our forthcoming events, and developments across the B'nai B'rith community

B'nai B'rith UK views with dismay the Govenrment annoucement of sanctions against Israeli settlement products. It is a policy which will do nothing to move towards peace and co-existence and will further encourage extremist politicians on all sides. The Foreign Secretary has said that the move is necessary to preserve a path to the two state solution. But his speech today placed the overwhelming responsibility for its failed implementation on Israel. This ignores the many times that the Palestinian Authority has rejected a two state compromise, continued their 'pay for slay' policy and incited hatred in their education system. It is true that there are extremist elements within the settler movement that carry out reprehensible acts of lawless violence, and that these people are encouraged by far right ministers. It is right that they are condemned. But this latest measure risks a wider trade ban on Israeli goods, giving succour to antizionists who believe that Israel as a whole is illegitimate. Worse, it will only add fuel to an already insecure enviroment and unprecedented climate of antisemitic hostility that will make British Jews feel even more vulnerable at this time of year.. . Dr Jeremy Havardi Director, Bureau of International Affairs

We are delighted to announce the launch of the flipbook and PDF versions of our programme for the 2026 European Days of Jewish Culture and Heritage, with the theme of 'Love'! Here you will find all the information you need for a whole host of fascinating events, talks, guided walks and exhibitions taking place around the UK between 1st September and 31st December: Check them out and make sure you pre-book any that need advance booking. We hope you enjoy a wonderful autumn enjoying Jewish culture and heritage across the UK!

Bureau of International Affairs Zoom Meeting with Adam Louis Klein

BB International have just published the Summer 2026 edition of their IMPACT REPORT. This includes a message from soon-to-be-former CEO, Dan Mariaschin, who will be stepping down and transitioning to become Honorary Executive Vice President and Special Advisor, together with a roundup of tributes to his outstanding contribution over 40 years at the organisation Here is the full list of contents:

B'nai B'rith UK condemns unreservedly and in the strongest terms the acts of violence perpetrated in Belfast, Southampton and other cities. It is clear that acts of criminality and thuggishness like these are often fuelled by incendiary rhetoric about immigrants and asylum seekers. As such, we must stand with vulnerable communities facing intimidation and incitement, as well as faith groups who deserve to practise their beliefs free from fear. Legitimate debates are needed on questions related to immigration policy and border checks, and the right of peaceful protest must be upheld. But acts and threats of violence are always unacceptable and must be rejected. . Dr Jeremy Havardi Director, Bureau of International Affairs