British police announced Wednesday that they would strengthen their measures against people using placards, slogans or chants targeting the Jewish community, believing that the security context has profoundly changed following recent violent acts.
This decision comes after a series of deadly attacks targeting Jews, including a shooting at a Hanukkah celebration on Bondi Beach in Australia that left 15 people dead, and an attack in October at a Manchester synagogue in which two worshippers were killed.
Law enforcement officials believe that certain slogans used during demonstrations, such as "globalize the intifada," are causing serious concern within Jewish communities and can contribute to a climate of threat. They now consider that these expressions must be evaluated in light of recent violence.
In a joint statement, the Metropolitan Police of London and Greater Manchester Police warned that people using this type of message at demonstrations or in a targeted manner would be subject to increased police intervention.
The authorities stressed their commitment to protecting the right to protest while asserting that this right should not be used as cover for speech or actions inciting hatred or violence against a community.
