United purpose England
Thousands attend rally for British Jews Page 3
calling
Josh Glancy’s national pride p26
VOICE OF THE COMMUNITY
Photograph by Philippa Gedge
11 September 2025 • 18 Ellul 5785 • Issue No.1436 •
@JewishNewsUK
Treason in the name of courage
Jonathan Freedland on the untold story of the heroes who plotted against Hitler Interview, see pages 40 & 41
Herzog to UK Jews: ‘I’ve got your back’ Israeli president’s pledge after Starmer showdown by Richard Ferrer and Lee Harpin editorial@jewishnews.co.uk
Israeli President Isaac Herzog arrived in London this week with a clear message for the UK’s beleaguered Jewish community: “I’ve got your back.” In a visit framed by mounting antisemitism, deepening unease over the Gaza war, a UK freeze on certain arms to Israel, plans to recognise Palestinian statehood and mounting tensions over Israel’s strike on Hamas leaders in Qatar, Herzog sought to reassure diaspora Jews that their concerns are being heard loud and clear in Jerusalem. In a wide-ranging interview with Jewish News on Wednesday, the president said: “I care. We care. Your voice is heard. Your voice must be heard. World Jewry is being attacked and harassed, which poses many questions for Israel in these dire and complicated
times. On the plane coming here, British Jews approached to me and said, ‘Thank you for coming to London to support us. Thank you for standing up for British Jews.” Herzog, who has styled himself as both Israel’s head of state and a guardian of world Jewry, was explicit about his responsibility. “I see as one of my main missions to protect and defend the Jewish people all over the world. I know Jews in Britain are facing many questions. My role is to make sure they know: Israel is with them. Always.” The president, who arrived in the UK on Tuesday for a three-day visit, also acknowledged growing polarisation among British Jews regarding Israel’s direction of travel, domestically and in terms of the ongoing war in Gaza, noting that similar splits exist inside Israel itself. “I am aware of the issues and challenges the Jewish community in the UK Continued on page 4
Sir Keir Starmer welcomes Israeli President Isaac Herzog to Downing Street