This week marks the one-year anniversary of the Israel-Hamas war, which began with a large-scale Hamas attack on southern Israel, resulting in numerous fatalities and hostages on both sides.
What began as a humanitarian catastrophe has escalated into a situation where the entire Middle East is spiralling out of control, with Israel now engaged in a war on multiple fronts that poses a significant threat to the region's stability.
Over the past year, there has been an alarming rise in hate crimes in the UK, particularly antisemitism and Islamophobia, significantly affecting Jewish and Muslim communities.
The Metropolitan Police reported a staggering 286% increase in antisemitic hate crimes from September 2023 to August 2024 compared to the previous year, alongside a 67% rise in anti-Muslim hate crimes during the same timeframe.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer marked the anniversary of the Hamas attack on Israel, calling it the bloodiest day for Jewish people since the Holocaust. He said, “It's a day of sorrow, a day of grief. Over a thousand people were massacred. Hundreds taken hostage in an attack borne of hatred. Targeted not just at individuals but at Jewish communities, at their way of life and at the state of Israel – the symbol of Jewish security to the world.”
He added, “We stand with all innocent victims in Israel, Gaza, the West Bank, Lebanon, and beyond, as well as with all communities in the UK against hatred—whether aimed at Jews or Muslims. Any attack on a minority undermines our values of tolerance and respect, and we will not accept it.”
Starmer emphasised that the UK stands with Israel against Iranian aggression as the Middle East nears the brink of regional war, reaffirming commitment to international law.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan has warned that escalating violence in the Middle East could result in increased hate crimes in Britain. He is already allocating £15 million to support hate crime victims and combat extremism in London.
In response to the Lebanon crisis and the potential for an Israeli ground invasion, an additional £875,000 will be spent on addressing anti-Jewish and anti-Muslim hatred, including online.
Operation Tarlac addresses community concerns amid Middle East unrest
Last year, The National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) and National Police Coordination Centre (NPoCC) launched Operation Tarlac to support local policing and ensure public safety amid rising tensions from Middle East conflicts.
The operation aimed to coordinate responses and align with counter-terrorism frameworks. Following the initial attacks, protests quickly erupted across the UK, with police responding to 67 demonstrations outside London during a four-day period in early November, highlighting the widespread impact on British communities.
Chief Constable Chris Noble, NPCC Strategic Lead for Operation Tarlac, and the national lead for Policing Protests stated that “The tragic events of October 2023 and beyond continue to affect our communities, and our thoughts remain with those impacted. Over the past 12 months, our officers have responded to an increase in protest activity seen in response to events overseas, often under significant scrutiny. The Home Affairs Select Committee in February acknowledged the complexities of balancing rights during protests, with recent demonstrations putting policing under the most sustained pressure since 2012. Our officers and staff have demonstrated exceptional commitment and professionalism in responding to these challenges, and their efforts deserve our gratitude and recognition.”
“We recognise that events in the Middle East continue to evolve, that a further escalation in conflict is possible, and that this will raise concerns further in our communities at home, particularly those who have friends and family in the region. People wish to have their voices heard, and the right to lawful protest is a key part of any democracy, which UK police uphold and facilitate. We continue to ask that those looking to organise any future events contact their local police force and engage with them ahead of the time, to ensure that any activity that takes place does so peacefully and lawfully, to the benefit of all in attendance,” he added.
Festivities proceed safely with police security
The ongoing conflict raises concerns about potential racial clashes or jeopardising in security. In response, many organisations are ramping up their security measures to ensure safe festivities and protect participants from any potential threats.
President of The Hindu Forum of Britain, Truptiben Patel stated, “Community organisations are actively celebrating the Navratri Festival, with local police providing essential support to ensure safety during these events. So far, there have been no reported incidents, which is a positive sign. We emphasise the importance of health and safety regulations at places of worship and the responsibility of event organisers to conduct thorough checks to prevent any unruly behaviour. It is crucial to ensure the presence of security cameras and other safety measures. Additionally, close coordination with emergency services, including police and ambulance teams, is necessary to prepare for any potential emergencies. Most organisations have been proactive in taking these basic precautions, which is encouraging.”
“From the outset, we have advised all organisations to obtain the necessary permissions from their local authorities before planning any activities. Meeting with local councils to finalise event details is vital. For instance, in Brent Council alone, there are currently 36 Garba events taking place across various locations. While this may pose organisational challenges, the community has generally shown a sensible approach to managing these events,” she added.
Trupti emphasised that no one should stand with those who perpetuate terrorism and hate. She said, “In this world, there is room for everyone to coexist peacefully. The Sanskrit mantra "Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah," meaning "may all be happy, may all be free from illness, may all see what is auspicious, may no one suffer, and may there be peace," encapsulates this belief.”
* Asian Voice reached out to a few politicians regarding the ongoing tensions in the Middle East
