The UK government has announced a £250 million ($335 million) security package over the next three years to strengthen protection for Jewish communities following a series of recent antisemitic attacks across the country.
According to the government, the funding will support the deployment of more than 500 additional police officers across England and Wales. The officers will enhance security in Jewish neighbourhoods and increase patrols around schools, synagogues, and community centres.
The announcement follows several attacks targeting Jewish-linked sites, including the arson of four Jewish community ambulances in London earlier this year. In April, Britain also raised its national terrorism threat level from “substantial” to “severe” after an antisemitic stabbing attack in north London.
The latest funding package comes in addition to the £25 million announced after the April attack. Around 300 officers will be deployed in London, while 80 officers will serve Greater Manchester, where a synagogue was attacked last year. Another £43 million has been allocated to police forces in other areas with significant Jewish populations.
Outgoing Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the rise in antisemitism poses a serious challenge to Britain’s values and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to tackling hate crimes.
The Metropolitan Police will receive £86 million from the package, while £59 million has been allocated for counter-terrorism policing. Authorities said the increased police presence aims to deter antisemitic incidents and provide reassurance to vulnerable communities.
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