1379 - 8th August 2024

FreeWeekly PaperoftheYear

Paris remembers

Olympic ceremony marks the murder of 11 Israelis in 1972 P9

Where to indulge your sweet tooth in London P28

Hopes for happy returns Raise the roof!

Hundreds mark hostage Kfir Bibas’ fifth birthday, Page 18

The Chief Rabbi has led a coalition of faith leaders in a powerful call for unity and understanding following race riots across England and Northern Ireland, writes Jenni Frazer.

Sir Ephraim Mirvis, along with other prominent figures including the Archbishops of Canterbury and Westminster and two senior Muslim leaders, signed a letter, published in Tuesday’s Times newspaper, urging “constructive and compassionate dialogue on immigration and social cohesion”.

The group added that they have “watched in horror as a small minority has brought hatred, violence and vandalism to towns

and cities across the country” in behaviour that is “a stain on our national moral conscience”.

In Southport, the “small but tight-knit” Jewish community has said prayers and taken part in the town’s vigil for those killed and wounded in last week’s tragic knife attack on a children’s dance class.

Victor Isenwater, chair of Southport Hebrew Congregation, told Jewish News: “It is a di cult time for the Southport community right now.

“Although, thank God, none of our members or our families were victims of the tragedy, we are all impacted by the horror inflicted on our community. Our hearts go

Our theatre reviewer’s verdict on the opening night of Fiddler on the Roof in Regent’s Park P27

‘Hatred and violence staining our nation’ Chief Rabbi appeals for unity as far-right targets Muslims

out to the families of the bereaved and the injured.

“We have contacted our members to ensure that they feel safe and have asked if they need any support. On Shabbat in shul we recited special prayers. We pray that the injured make a full and speedy recovery. We attended the vigil on Tuesday to remember the victims.”

Isenwater added that the community, which has had good relations with Southport’s mosque and its imam, had sent a message to the chair and written formally from the community to o er support.

“For several years the imam has spoken at the Holocaust Memo-

rial Day service, which we help to organise,” he said. “Inter-community relations are important to us and we don’t need people stoking tensions at this di cult time.”

The Southport Jewish community is donating funds to the Alder Hey hospital in Liverpool, where those injured in the attack were treated.

Following the Southport deaths, there have been outbreaks of far-right riots and attacks on Muslims across the country. Jewish communal organisations have expressed their horror at the violence on Britain’s streets, though Simon Myerson KC, who Continued on page 2

Record level of anti-Jewish hate in the first half of 2024

by Lee Harpin lee@jewishnews.co.uk

Antisemitic incidents logged by the Community Security Trust were at their highest level ever during the first six months of this year, a report published today confirms.

From January to June 2024, the CST recorded 1,978 incidents of antiJewish racism, compared with 964 incidents recorded in the same period a year earlier.

The charity, which monitors antisemitism and provides security for the Jewish community in Britain, said the record high total in the first half of 2024 is a continuation of the impact of antisemitic reactions to the 7 October terror attack in Israel and the subsequent ongoing war.

Half-year figures showed that abusive behaviour (1,618 incidents) topped the list of incidents reported, while threats (142 incidents), assault (121 incidents) and damage and desecration (83 incidents), also featured in the disturbing new report.

Cases of damage and desecration to Jewish property rose by 246 percent, from 24 in the first half of 2023 to 83 between January and June 2024, the highest ever six-monthly total in this category.

Seventy-six antisemitic incidents recorded during the first six months of 2024 targeted synagogues, including buildings and people. Congregants on their way to or from prayers were victims in a further 38, compared with 30 and 16 incidents during the first half of 2023.

CST logged 81 antisemitic

incdents involving schoolchildren or staff at non-faith schools, comprising a record half-year total of 162 cases of antisemitism affecting people and property in the school sector.

Of the 1,037 antisemitic incidents recorded across Greater London, 411 took place in Barnet, the local authority that is home to the biggest Jewish community in the UK.

There were 122 instances of antiJewish hate recorded in Westminster,

94 in Camden, 60 in Hackney and 30 in Brent.

CST chief executive Mark Gardner said: “The disgraceful surge in British antisemitism is further evidenced by these latest figures. It happens across society, including in schools, campuses, places of work, public transport and on the streets.

“We note that while such hatreds may target Jews first, they quickly turn to others. “

Gardner added: “CST applauds our community’s ever-increasing determination to stand strong and proud, despite the hatred, vilification and blatant double standards that we too often face, including from many who perversely call themselves anti-racists. We thank the police for their support and note that the recent general election has rightly not lessened government support for CST and British Jews.”

Home secretary Yvette Cooper said: “The soaring levels of antisemitic hate outlined in this report are truly appalling, and we must never relent in our work to root out this hatred in all its forms. There is no place in Britain for this vile hatred and we are absolutely clear that those who push this poison must always face the full force of the law.

“I want to thank the CST for their tireless daily work to keep our Jewish communities safe. This government is committed to multi-year funding for the CST, and to working with the Jewish community and the police to ensure that everybody feels safe on our streets.”

While shadow home secretary, James Cleverly, said: “We must root out antisemitism wherever it occurs. It is up to all of us to stop and reverse the increase in this vile hatred we have seen in the UK since the Hamas terror attack on 7 October.

“It can never be right British Jews could be concerned for their safety on the streets of modern Britain, but that is the shocking and depressing reality.”

The half-year figures detailed in the new report confirms a higher number than the full-year incident total for any year other than 2021 and 2023, both of which also saw Israel at war. Despite the alarming new statistics CST recorded one incident of extreme violence in the first six months of 2024.

Thirteen incidents of massproduced antisemitic literature were also recorded during the first six months of 2024, while CST recorded 630 cases of online antisemitism in the same period, an increase of 153 percent compared to the first six months of 2023.

• Dave Rich, p24

CHIEF RABBI PLEADS FOR UNITY ... AS MP URGES ‘CALM’

Continued from page 1 chairs the Leeds Jewish Representative Council, warned that “Jewish triumphalism” about attacks on Muslims was reprehensible. “I would expect the majority of the Jewish community to say to British Muslims, we know how this feels and we stand ready to help you in any way we can,” he said.

The president of the Board of Deputies, Phil Rosenberg, said he “unequivocally condemned” the lawlessness seen on our streets in recent days.

In a statement, he said: “We stand in solidarity with everyone affected.

“As a society, we have to be better than this. We need a national conversation about how we promote respect for our country and respect for each other, and how about we tackle extremism and build cohesion.”

The Community Security Trust also issued a statement, saying it

“utterly condemns” the violence seen followed the murders of young girls in Southport. Our thoughts are with the officers and communities affected”.

HIAS+JCORE, the Jewish community organisation that works with asylum seekers and refugees, also condemned the week’s “awful scenes in Rotherham and Tamworth”.

But it added: “We also need to be clear: these riots did not happen in a vacuum. They come after years of demonisation and dehumanisation of displaced people, Muslims, and other minorities. Politicians and the media must communicate responsibly and reject narratives which sow division.

“As an organisation led by Jewish values and history, including our own refugee experience in the UK, we know all too well about where this rhetoric leads, and the impact it can have. We stand in full solidarity with

minorities who have been left terrified by these events, and with local people around the UK who refuse to let the far-right divide their communities.”

The nearest Jewish community to Rotherham, in Yorkshire, where there was a high level of violence, is Sheffield. Jane Ginsborg, from the city’s Seven Hills synagogue, said her congregation had positive relations with the Muslim community and there was involvement with Sheffield Interfaith.

Members of her community took part in a demonstration on Sunday organised by Stand Up to Racism.

In Manchester, which also had riots led by far-right extremists, Mark Adlestone, chair of the Jewish Representative Council, said: “We must stand united to build a cohesive and tolerant society.”

• Phil Rosenberg, p24

Finchley and Golders Green MP

Sarah Sackman chaired a meeting with Jewish and Muslim community leaders, a senior Metropolitan Police official and Barnet Council leaders ahead of a planned far-right gathering outside a immigration advice centre.

Solicitor General Sackman praised the leadership shown by those who attended Wednesday’s meeting and admitted she feared a planned action in North Finchley later that day had the potential for “disorder and Islamophobic and antisemitic behaviour. ”

Sackman told those in attendance – who included all of Barnet’s three MPs, Imam Hamid Qureshi of the North Finchley Mosque, rabbis from New North London, Finchley Progressive and Reform synagogues, Jo Grose, chief executive of the United Synagogue and Barnet Council leader Barry Rowlings – that the meeting was

also “a chance to share and listen to your fears and to think about how we deepen community cohesion in the future.”

Representatives from the Community Security Trust, Somali Bravanese Welfare Association, and the Tell MAMMA organisations were also present.

Last night’s planned action by the far-right in Finchley was one of at least at least 30 possible gatherings set to take place outside the premises of immigration law specialists.

Jewish News was aware of the intended location of last night’s gathering, which had been widely condemned by local representatives.

Sackman, a minister in Keir Starmer’s government, earlier attended a briefing with Home Secretary Yvette Cooper and the Met Police Commissioner.

A defaced chanukiah and ‘Gaza’ daubed on a wall in London

The sixmonth figures were more than double the figure for the same period last year

UNRWA scandal

Nine UNRWA staff sacked over ‘likely’ involvement in 7 October

Nine sta members of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA) are “likely” to have been involved in the 7 October Hamas attack and have now been fired, writes Lee Harpin.

The UN confirmed the dismissals on Monday following a lengthy investigation into alleged involvement of 19 UNRWA sta members in the massacre. Two have since died.

“For nine people, the evidence was su cient to conclude that they may have been involved in the seventh of October attacks,” deputy spokesman Farhan Haq said. “For us, any participation in the attacks is a tremendous betrayal of the work that we are supposed to be doing.”

Israeli military spokesman Nadav Shoshani posted on X after the announcement saying: “Your ‘relief’ agency has o cially stooped to a new level of low and it is time that the world sees your true face.”

Israel’s ambassador to the UN, Gilad Erdan called the investigation a “disgrace” and “too little too late”.

Haq said all the nine individuals

the investigation concluded may have been involved were men. It was unclear what they had done. “We have su cient information in order to take the actions that we’re taking, which is to say, the termination of these nine individuals,” he added.

Asked if this meant the UN considered the nine were “likely or

In March, Israel suggested up to 450 UNRWA sta were military operatives in Gaza terrorist groups, although it did not provide evidence to support the claim.

Allegations of collusion with Hamas led to multiple countries in January including the UK, US and Germany suspending their funding to UNRWA, which is the main channel of humanitarian support to Palestinian refugee communities across the region.

Investigations mounted into the agency’s ability to scrutise sta and stop further future wrongdoing have reassured every country except the United States to restore funding to the organisation as Israel’s war against Hamas continues.

highly likely” to have been part of the attacks, he replied: “That’s a good way of describing it.”

The UN launched the investigation after Israel initially said 12 UNRWA personel took part in 7 October, before seven more cases were referred to the UN O ce of Internal Oversight Services.

‘OUR FIGHT’ GROUP TAKES ON OXFAM

Members of the activist group Our Fight stage a counterprotest to Stop Arming Israel, an installation outside the Palace of Westminster and which is backed by the charity Oxfam. The demonstrators also condemned what they called the ‘moves to abandon Israel when it is being attacked by multiple terror groups, including Hamas, Hezbollah and the Houthis’

ISRAEL ARMS POLICY UNCHANGED

There has been no change to the UK government’s approach to granting arms export licences to Israel despite reports to the contrary, Jewish News has been told, writes Lee Harpin.

The Department of Business and Trade is also using the same licensing protocol as the previous Tory government, including the granting of some licences since earlier this year.

Reports last Saturday claimed that civil servants had frozen applications for new arms export licences pending the outcome of a review of some being used in Gaza.

The reports claimed that the move had been taken despite foreign secretary David Lammy telling the Commons investigations into

sales were “ongoing” and “complex.” Responding to the allegations of an embargo, a government spokesperson told Jewish News in a statement: “There has been no change to our approach to export licences to Israel.

“We continue to review export licence applications on a case-bycase basis against the Strategic Export Licensing Criteria.

“It is vital that we uphold both our domestic and international legal obligations when it comes to arms exports. We are reviewing the advice regarding exports to Israel and no decision has been made.”

The aid agency, which had its UK funding restored last month after it was suspended due to the suspected link with the terrorist massacre, employs 32,000 people, including 13,000 in Gaza.

The UN said the investigation had “made findings” in relation to 19 UNRWA sta members.

The agency added that several had escaped dismissal after it was concluded the evidence of involvement in the Hamas invasion was not conclusive enough.

In a statement, UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini said those who were found to have likely taken part in 7 October “cannot work for Unrwa”, insisting that sta must respect its policies insisting on the “humanitarian principle of neutrality”.

“The agency’s priority is to continue lifesaving and critical services for Palestine refugees in Gaza and across the region, especially in the face of the ongoing war, the instability and risk of regional escalation,” Lazzarini added.

ARMY ON STANDBY FOR LEBANON EVACUATIONS

British military teams have been put on standby to evacuate citizens from Lebanon if violence escalates between Israel, Hezbollah and Iran.

Britons are being advised to leave even if available flights do not go directly to the UK or a European city.

The government said it had sent extra consular, Border Force and military teams to support UK embassy sta and deal with potential exit routes from Lebanon, including roads, being a ected or closed.

The G7 group of wealthy nations –the US, UK, Germany, France, Japan, Canada and Italy – on Monday urged restraint and de-escalation, saying recent events “threatened to ignite a broader conflict in the region”.

UK foreign secretary David Lammy posted on X: “The UK continues to work around the clock with international partners to reduce tensions in the Middle East.”

Lammy stressed the urgency of the situation, noting “tensions are high, and the situation could deteriorate rapidly. While we are working round the clock to strengthen our consular presence in Lebanon, my message to British nationals there is to leave now.”

He added: “A widening of this conflict is in nobody’s interest – the consequences could be catastrophic. That’s why we continue to call for de-escalation and a diplomatic solution.”

Iran has vowed “severe” retalia-

tion against Israel, which it blames for the death of Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. Israel has not commented.

The Haniyeh assassination came just a few hours after Israel killed Hezbollah senior commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut.

Western o cials fear Hezbollah, an Iran-backed militia and political movement based in Lebanon, could play a key role in any retaliation, which in turn would be likely to spark a serious Israeli response.

The US is also deploying additional military power in the Middle East as a defensive measure with a goal of de-escalating tensions in the region, a White House o cial said on Sunday.

US president Joe Biden was convening his national security team on Monday to discuss developments in the Middle East, the White House said, adding he would also be speaking with Jordan’s King Abdullah.

Former England boss Gareth Southgate

An UNRWA base in Gaza City and (inset) CCTV of two suspected agency workers on 7 October. The UK has reinstated funding to the organisation

Hezbollah members observing Ashura

‘No change’ in approach to Israel

News

Thirty British rabbis sign letter backing Labour’s stance on Israel

A letter signed by 30 UK rabbis published by The Sunday Times appears to take issue with criticism of the new Labour government’s approach to the conflict between Israel and Hamas made by Board of Deputies president Phil Rosenberg, writes Lee Harpin.

Rosenberg had claimed “many British Jews find themselves with grave concerns about the new government’s foreign policy stance towards Israel”.

The Board president also suggested Labour’s approach – which has included restoring UK funding to UNRWA and dropping objectiona to the jurisdiction of the ICC to seek arrest warrants against Israeli and Hamas leaders for possible war crimes – offered the impression Keir Starmer’s government was jeopardising its reputation on national security.

But in a subsequent letter to the paper, the 30 rabbis, mainly from the broad Progressive Judaism spectrum, wrote: “Phil Rosenberg, president of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, rightly says that many British Jews have strong

personal ties to Israel last week.

“We are rabbis from a variety of Jewish movements and, like others in our community, we hold deep concern for the wellbeing of Israel’s citizens, and in particular for the hostages still held in Gaza.

“We also hold deep concern for the many Palestinians killed during the war and for the unfolding humanitarian crisis.

“The new Labour government has put respect for the rule of law at the heart of its approach to the conflict in the Middle East.

“While that may present difficult choices that some of us may find hard to accept, we believe that the government is correct to uphold an international rules-based order.”

Signatories included rabbis Robyn Ashworth-Steen, Rebecca Birk, Daisy Bogod, Dr Barbara Borts, Janet Burden, Douglas Charing, Janet Darley, Paul Freedman, Adam Frankenburg, Margaret Jacobi, Richard Jacobi and Laura JannerKlausner.

“International law applies equally to all, and it is incumbent on us to listen and to reckon with

what this means for our community’s relationship to Israel,” the rabbis wrote.

“We hold Israelis and Palestinians in our hearts, and pray for an end to the war, release of hostages, and for aid to be delivered to those in need.”

Jewish News previously

revealed senior Labour figures had outlined in a meeting with some of the party’s most loyal stakeholders their decision to take a tougher approach around the need for international law to be respected.

One communal figure told a senior Labour figure: “The politics

Trade talks with Israel ‘essential’

Business and trade secretary Jonathan Reynolds has said the government is to restart trade talks – with Israel among the first on the list, writes Lee Harpin.

Labour says it is determined to spark economic growth and will meet Israel, the Gulf Cooperation Council, India, South Korea, Switzerland and Turkey, with the first round during the autumn.

Confirming Israel was one of the first countries involved, Reynolds said: “Boosting trade abroad is essential to deliver a strong economy at home [so] I’ve wasted no time taking stock of progress and getting ready to press on.

“Our trade programme is ambitious and plays to the UK’s strengths to give British businesses access to some of the most exciting economies in the world.

Jewish News understands that while the government will take a tougher stance over concerns about Gaza, it also wants to be seen doing more to boost connections with Israel in other ways.

Restarting talks is seen as the first step toward agreeing the high-quality trade deals the UK needs to give businesses access to international markets and boost jobs and growth.

With exports totalling £855bn, the UK was the world’s 4th largest exporter in 2022.

Our teams will be entering negotiating rooms as soon as possible, laser-focused on creating new opportunities for UK firms so they can support jobs across the country and deliver growth.”

The government said a trade agreement with the Gulf Cooperation Council would be “a substantial economic opportunity”, with at least £19bn total already invested in each other’s economies as of 2021.

ISLAMOPHOBIA DEFINITION MULLED

The government is looking at creating a definition of Islamophobia by monitoring hate crimes against the UK Muslim population, writes Lee Harpin.

Asked if it was considering introducing a definition comparable to antisemitism, No 10 said: “On the issue of a specific definition, the government is looking at that issue closely, and is engaging with stakeholders.”

The statement noted Labour’s election manifesto had given this commitment and had pledged to “strengthen protections”.

The statement stopped short of saying the government was ready to confirm that a specific criminal offence of Islamophobia was being considered. “There is work ongoing on that and we will provide an update in due course,” it added.

Antisemitism has the IHRC definition, but there is no official definition of what constitutes anti-Muslim prejudice.

Some MPs and commentators have claimed that an Islamophobia definition would represent a threat to free speech.

In January, Labour MP Zarah Sultana

asked then-prime minister Rishi Sunak if he would call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. Sunak replied by suggesting Sultana “would do well to call on Hamas and the Houthis to de-escalate the situation” – an answer condemned in a post on X by the Labour Muslim Network, the party’s main Muslim representative body, as “clear Islamophobia”.

A report published in April by the think-tank Policy Exhange questioned the need for a definition, suggesting that it would cause “new problems” to emerge.

of this are awful. Some of us have family members living in Israel, putting their lives at risk on the front line.”

Party chiefs including new attorney general Richard Hermer KC have also been awaiting the result of “complex” and “ongoing” legal advice on arms licences to Israel over fears, raised under the previous Tory government, that Israel’s military has breached international law in Gaza.

Alongside allies such as the US, the new government has become increasingly frustrated with the failure of ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas.

But despite the apparent shift toward criticism about the loss of innocent lives in Gaza and the increasingly hardline approach of Netanyahu, senior Labour figures have continued engagement with Israel at a senior level.

Foreign Secretary David Lammy has met both Benjamin Netanyahu and president Isaac Herzog, while Defence Secretary John Healey met his Israeli counterpart Yoav Gallant in Tel Aviv last Friday.

ALLAHU AKBAR CHANT ‘CRIMINAL’

Tory leadership hopeful Robert Jenrick has suggested that people shouting “Allahu Akbar” at pro-Palestine protests in London “should be immediately arrested”.

Asked how he could justify claims of “two-tier policing” in the UK, the MP for Newark confirmed he had been “very critical” of the police previously over responses to the protests taking place after the 7 October Hamas attacks.

He told Sky News: “I thought it was quite wrong that somebody could shout ‘Allahu Akbar’ on the streets of London and not be immediately arrested. Or project genocidal chants on to Big Ben, and that person not be immediately arrested. That attitude is wrong and I’ll always call out the police.”

In February, protesters projected from the river to the sea” on to the Elizabeth Tower, angering people who said the words call for the eradication of the state of Israel.

Jenrick was immediately criticised for his comments, with some suggesting that he was Islamophobic by equating

the Arab saying “God is great” with a criminal offence.

The former communities secretary attempted to clarify his claims by posting footage on X with a video of British Muslim men chanting ‘Allahu Akbar’ in a city centre as they gathered in response to this week’s far-right gatherings.

He wrote: “Allahu Akbar’ is spoken peacefully and spiritually by millions of British Muslims in their daily lives. But the aggressive chanting below is intimidatory and threatening.

“And it’s an offence under Section 4 and 5 of the Public Order Act. Extremists routinely abuse common expressions for their own shameful ends. All violence must end. All violence must be called out.”

David Lammy meets Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem last month

Sarah Sackman and Jonathan Reynolds visit Akiva School in Finchley Islamists in central London

22 SEPTEMBER 2024 • London, UK

This unique event provides doctors and medical students with the opportunity to meet with representatives from across the Israeli medical establishment.

MedEx is the only place where you can:

• Have your documents certified in person

MedEx is brought to you by the International Medical Aliyah Program (IMAP) medical license

• Begin the process of transferring your

• Interview with Israeli hospitals and medical clinics

• Discuss your Aliyah plans

– all under one roof!

BBC and Board face-to-face over antisemitism concerns

BBC director-general Tim Davie has discussed allegations of antisemitism at the corporation during a meeting with the Board of Deputies.

The group said it raised “long-standing misgivings” with the BBC boss over its culture and coverage, including refusing to call Hamas terrorists in its reporting of the war with Israel.

The meeting came a day after more than 200 people from the TV and film industry signed a letter calling for an urgent investigation into allegations of antisemitism at the BBC.

Board of Deputies president Phil Rosenberg said: “We were absolutely clear to the BBC leadership about the unacceptable state of affairs, both in terms of content and coverage.

“We found the BBC team to be open and engaged and welcomed their commitment to consider our proposals. As ever, we will judge the corporation by its actions.”

A BBC spokesperson said: “We were pleased to meet today with the Board of Deputies and we look forward to continuing an open dialogue.”

The meeting was planned initially as an introduction for Davie and Rosenberg, but the Board of Deputies president “took the opportunity to discuss concerns from BBC employees, contractors and creatives” following the release of the letter of complaint.

This said 208 people from across the television and film industries, the majority of whom were Jewish, were “in anguish and disbelief” that previous complaints about coverage and social media breaches amid the Israel-Hamas war had not been dealt with.

The signatories also cited social-media posts

of people in Gaza being killed. He reportedly did it in error, and told The Guardian he had “received threats” and described socialmedia postings on the HamasIsrael war as “toxic”.

Social-media guidelines were updated to say BBC flagship presenters had a “particular responsibility to help to balance commitments to both freedom of expression and impartiality” after Lineker was taken off air in the wake of controversy over him comparing the language used to launch the Tory government’s asylum seeker policy with 1930s Germany.

from Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker and BBC Arabic staff, among others.

Last year, Lineker retweeted a post by a pro-Palestinian group calling for the International Olympic Committee, Fifa and all regional and international sports governing bodies to take “an urgent stance” following thousands

Davie told MPs in March some tweets by BBC Arabic staff were “unacceptable”, and maintained the broadcaster was “acting fairly and judiciously”. He also told staff in an email in February he was “listening” following concerns of abuse of staff, as well as stating that there is “no place at the BBC for racist abuse of any kind” including antisemitism.

Since October 2023, the BBC has had a community group for Arab and Muslim employees, as well as Jewish staff, through the staff-led network BBC Embrace.

• Editorial comment, page 20

RABBI CHARED IN IRELAND OVER CIRCUMCISION

A London rabbi has been charged in Ireland with performing a circumcision without medical certification.

Rabbi Jonathan Abraham, 47, appeared at Dublin District Court last week accused of violating the Medical Practitioners Act of 2007.

He was remanded in custody over concerns he would leave the country. If found guilty he could be fined £130,000 and face a maximum five years’ imprisonment.

Brit milah is legal in Ireland but subject to restrictions including one stating the person performing it must have local certification.

The law is rarely enforced but was in this instance even though he is a

registered mohel with 13 years’ experience. He is the first rabbi in years to be prosecuted in the European Union in connection with a Brit Milah.

While Rabbi Abraham’s actions would be entirely legal in England, the judge at his bail hearing was quick to remind his lawyer he was addressing an Irish court.

A detective told the judge at the bail hearing she had encountered Rabbi Abraham inside a domicile “dressed in a white robe, a doctorstyle coat, with blue gloves and a scalpel in his hand”.

He was next to a changing pad, with scissors and other medical supplies and implements.

“A very young child on the changing pad naked” had already been circumcised and another one

It was last February that I was diagnosed with high risk Neuroblastoma.

The diagnosis was a real shock as I had no symptoms apart from a tummy ache.

I knew about Chai because they’d helped us when my grandpa was unwell, so it felt really good to know that they would be able to help us all again.

For Dad it was counselling, for Mum it was therapeutic massage and for me and my siblings, a combination of talking, music, art and play therapy.

Thank you Chai.

Ari, 13

To fi nd out more about Chai’s specialised services, please call our freephone helpline on 0808 808 4567 or visit chaicancercare.org or scan the QR code

was about to be, she told the court. The detective said she had entered the property in Dublin just after 1pm

on he day of the arrest with the homeowners’ permission.

Abraham’s lawyer informed the court of his client’s membership in the Initiation Society, which oversees Jewish circumcision practices, and that he was a certified mohel with 13 years experience.

Garda detective Megan Furey told Judge Michael Connellan that Rabbi Abraham had remained silent when the charges against him were read out at Blanchardstown Garda station. Police opposed bail, citing the gravity of the case.

Rabbi Abraham was due to reappear at Clover Hill District Court earlier this week.

Filming taking place during a media interview at BBC headquarters in London

Gary Linekar

Brit milah is legal in Ireland but subject to restrictions

Only a third of us say Shabbat is important

A third of British Jews say observing Shabbat is “very important” to their identity, according to a survey by the Institute for Jewish Policy Research (JPR), writes Michelle Rosenberg.

Based on the responses of nearly 5,000 British Jews, the research was carried out between November and December 2022.

The report, On the Seventh Day, by Senior Research Fellow Dr David Graham, explores different aspects of observing Shabbat among UK Jews.

It found 61 percent of respondents attended a Friday night meal most weeks, yet only one in five (20 percent) reported they refrain from using electricity on Shabbat

portion report buy challah at least occasionally. Observance of Shabbat peaks between the ages of 40-49.

Some 27 percent of respondents attend synagogue most Shabbats or more often. 23 percent abstain from driving on Shabbat, and 20 percent do not switch on electric lights on Shabbat.

JPR executive director Dr Jonathan Boyd said: “The observance of Shabbat has long been one of the most important dimensions of Jewish practice, perhaps even the most important of all. It continues to be today, although it is clearly marked in different ways and with different degrees of intensity along different parts of the denominational spectrum.

EasyJet halts Israel flights until 2025 EasyJet has confirmed that it will not resume flights from the UK to Israel until spring 2025. The airline said tht customers who ordered tickets between 27 October 2024 and 29 March 2025 will be offered a full refund. In April, EasyJet announced that as a result of the security situation it was suspending flights to and from Israel until 27 October. With tensions higher than ever in the region it has now extended that suspension until March 2025.

Haggadah donated to National Library

Just over one in three Jews (34 percent) say Shabbat is “very important” to their Jewish identity, a substantially lower proportion than those who say the same about “remembering the Holocaust” (71 percent), “strong moral and ethical behaviour” (69 percent) or “feeling part of the Jewish people” (65 percent). While 88 percent of Orthodox Jews say Shabbat is very important to their Jewish identity, this is the case for only 36 percent of traditional Jews and 28 percent of Reform/Progressive Jews.

Jews attend a Shabbat dinner most weeks, 58 percent regularly make time for family and friends, and 50 percent take a break from work on Shabbat.

About six in 10 (61 percent) of British

Some 80 percent of British Jews light candles on Friday night at least occasionally, and about the same pro-

“This short paper shares some of the latest figures, but research demonstrates that the underlying importance of Shabbat cannot be understated – practised habitually and meaningfully, it remains the archetypal means of transmitting Jewishness to the next generation.”

An illuminated Haggadah which sold for £370,000 at Sotheby’s has been donated to the National Library of Israel in Jerusalem. The original Hebrew manuscript (1980-84) by renowned Judaica artist David Moss was gifted to the collection by philanthropists Trudy Elbaum Gottesman and Robert Gottesman. It had been exhibited at the New York Public Library.

Aliyah: Building Dreams & Saving Tax

• The

• Helped

• Contact our

UCL wins court order over tents

University College London has obtained a High Court order to regain control of part of its campus, which has been occupied for months by a protest against the conflict in Gaza.

The university took legal action against “persons unknown” over the “unauthorised occupational encampment” on its main site in Bloomsbury, claiming activists were trespassing.

It sought a possession order to “prevent disruption” to its community and after spending more than £200,000 on security since tents were erected in May, the court heard.

Judge Francesca Kaye granted the order at a hearing on Tuesday.

Birmingham and Nottingham Universities secured similar orders against pro-Palestinian encampments on their land last month.

The judge concluded that protesters had “no real prospect” of

showing that UCL had acted in a discriminatory way or that an order would be an unlawful interference with their human rights.

Katharine Holland KC, for UCL, said in written arguments that it sought “an immediate order for possession” covering its main campus stretching from Gower Street to Gordon Street and Gordon Square, and Gower Place to Torrington Place.

“The aim is to protect the claimant’s right to possession of its own land and enable it to carry on the activities of the university and prevent disruption to other members of the university’s community,” she said.

“The encampment concerns current events in the Gaza Strip and UCL’s alleged complicity in Israel’s role in that conflict.”

The protest began on 2 May with 12 tents, growing “at its peak” to

Belgian Jews say they are preparing legal action against a popular satirical magazine sold in Belgium and the Netherlands after one of its columnists wrote that he ”wants to shove a sharp knife in the throat of every Jew I come across”.

about 50 people and 52 tents, Holland said. As of 18 July, 43 tents remained, with about 10 people involved in the protest.

The barrister said UCL had “taken reasonably practicable steps

Yossi Lempkowicz, editor in chief of the European Jewish Press, has reported that the European Jewish Association is opening “incitement to murder” proceedings against Herman Brusselmans, a whose latest column in Humo magazine

to ensure freedom of expression”, adding that the encampment could not be characterised as an expression of free speech or right to protest due to it excluding UCL from the “rightful possession of property” and because

attacks Israel. Brusselmans says Israel’s behaviour towards Gaza and the deaths of Palestinian children makes him so angry that he wants to retaliate physically against Jews.

DPG Media, which publishes Humo,

it sought to “pressurise” the university “to surrender to its demands”.

The university had previously been unable to identify encampment protesters although two students, Shaun Boodram and Kais Al-Kaisi, were later named as defendants.

Audrey Cherryl Mogan, representing the pair, briefly appeared at the hearing to say both were withdrawing their defence.

UCL’s legal team said the two had previously claimed the attempt to oust the encampment was “unlawful” and discriminated against their race, beliefs or religion. Ijeoma Omambala KC, also representing the university, told Tuesday’s hearing there was “no evidence” supporting the allegations.

Judge Kaye granted UCL a summary possession order, a legal step to decide the cases in the university’s favour without a full trial.

said: “Herman Brusselmans’ statements are part of a satirical column, not a journalistic article or an interview. For anyone who reads the entire column, it is abundantly clear that Herman did not mean the sentences literally.”

Students at the encampment at University College London

Herman Brusselmans

Struggling to hear the TV? Missing out on family phone chats?

Hearing just not what it used to be?

Jewish Deaf Association

St Andrews University said it had “no choice” but to remove its rector from her roles on the governing body and as a trustee after she refused to accept the findings of an investigation into her conduct, writes Beatrice Sayers.

In an 80-page report by an independent lawyer, Stella Maris was found to have displayed “poor judgment” when she sent a statement to all students last November offering her opinions on the war in Gaza.

In her email, the rector called Israel a genocidal and apartheid state, and in the following weeks wrote social media posts that were “discourteous and disrespectful”.

Maris issued a statement hours after the report’s publication through London-based firm Byfield, which describes itself as a consultancy in “specialist litigation PR”, criticising the university.

Morag Ross KC, now Lady Ross, completed her inquiry commissioned by the university court in mid-April but attempts at reaching a resolution with the rector delayed its publication until this week.

Ross’s report said Maris had caused reputational damage to the

university and that much work would be needed to restore trust and confidence in her. She also noted the rector appeared unrepentant and “has told me that she would take the same decision again and will not apologise”, and “the robustness of Ms Maris’ approach seems to preclude any willingness to accept that there may be validity in an opposing point of view”.

The report said a draft by Maris of her email to students referred to 240 people “reportedly held captive” by Hamas. Vice-principal (governance) Alastair Merrill warned her before she sent it that overall it had a “blatantly anti-Israel tone”.

Since receiving Ross’s report, the university court pursued what it called “extensive attempts at dialogue” with the aim of allowing Maris to continue in role. It said she “repeatedly declined” to accept Ross’s finding that she breached her responsibilities and had declined the university’s offer of facilitated discussion with an independent mediator.

Senior lay member and chair of the university court Ray Perman said last week it had been forced to conclude that the rector was in “serious

and persistent breach” and had therefore removed her as president of the court and as a trustee.

He added: “We also wish to stress most explicitly that the rector has never been asked to diminish or change her support of the Palestinian cause, only to acknowledge that in her handling of this matter

she caused distress and fear to some students, whom it was her duty to support and represent.”

Jewish students at the Scottish town were left feeling isolated and fearful following the rector’s actions.

At one point, Maris posted online that she would not interact with their complaints.

We’re a little different from other Estate Agents…

While she will stay in office because the university has no mechanism to remove her, she has been stripped of roles the rector normally fills.

Jewish News understands that the university will now discuss with Maris how she wishes to carry out any remaining duties until her term ends in October 2026.

Maris’s statement said the university’s decision showed “a lack of respect for the role of the rector”.

It claimed that she had been removed for calling out “Israel’s war crimes”, and she “will not apologise”.

It continued: “As a young, neurodiverse black woman with limited financial resources, I have faced the full force of the university... all because I made a statement supported by the overwhelming majority of students calling for an end to a genocide.

“I accept that I am bound by a code of conduct and the requirements placed on me as a charity trustee. I do not accept that these allow the university to interfere unilaterally and unduly in my right to express my views or manifest my protected beliefs, and I fully intend to appeal the decision.”

Sacked uni rector ‘to appeal’ Bank sorry for email mourning Haniyeh

A global investment bank has apologised for sending an email to clients that lamented the death of Hamas’ political leader and the mastermind behind the 7 October terror attack on Israel as “sad”, writes Richard Ferrer.

Union Bank of Switzerland (UBS), one of the world’s largest financial institutions, circulated a “trading desk commentary” to “institutional clients” saying: “Reports indicate that Hamas leader [Ismail] Haniyeh sadly was killed in the attack which further escalates tensions with Iran.”

The email, headlined USB Cash Trading –Main Themes 31st July, was one of a series of routine communication that are sent to the bank’s clients to update them on how world

events and their consequences are affecting financial markets.

Following the emergence of the message on social media, UBS quickly issued a statement to Jewish News

A spokesperson said: “UBS condemns all acts of terrorism and stands with those who advocate for peace and international law.”

The statement went on to say that the bank was “aware of inappropriate language that was used in a market commentary email”.

It added: “We immediately issued a formal apology to all who received it. We are also conducting a review to prevent any similar incidents happening again.”

TERROR SUSPECT ON TRIAL

A 24-year-old man accused of encouraging terrorism has said “far-right” views he posted online were of a “comedy character”.

Gabriel Budasz, born in Poland, is on trial at Winchester Crown Court accused of posting bomb-making tutorials online and encouraging terrorism.

Prosecutor Maryam Syed KC said Budasz was found by police as someone who used a number of social media posts to express “extreme racist views against black and Jewish people and encouraged others to direct action against them”.

Budasz told the court views he expressed on social media videos were the “views of a

comedy character” and denied encouraging others to take violent action against governments. Asked by his barrister, Tim Forte, if he held racist, homophobic, antisemitic or misogynistic views, Budasz replied: “No.”

Speaking of his social media videos, he said he labelled them as “comedic” and added: “The views were a comedy show, they were done from the viewpoint of the character who was far-right.”

Budasz denies counts of dissemination of terrorist publications and encouraging terrorism, and sending electronic communication with intent to cause distress or anxiety.

The trial continues.

Do you have a property to sell or let?

List it with us and we will take the stress out of finding a buyer or tenant

Why choose Squires?

Established in 2004, we advertise on all the major property portals including Rightmove and Zoopla and have 3 linked branches within North-West London.

Why choose me?

With 15 years experience I have a deep understanding of the local property market and living in Hendon means I have a wealth of useful contacts.

A graduation at St Andrews University and, inset, rector Stella Maris

‘Success in 2024 is answer to 1972’

By Justin Cohen in Paris @justincohen

An inspirational widow of the Munich massacre has described Israel’s record-breaking delegation in Paris as the “answer to the horrors of 1972” as she joined the country’s gold medalist Tom Reuveny and IOC President Thomas Bach in lighting candles at a memorial ceremony.

Ankie Spitzer was speaking at a moving service at Israel’s embassy in Paris on Tuesday after a week in which its athletes have secured six medals – two more than the previous record haul.

The 80-year-old hailed the 88-strong delegation for excelling under “extreme pressure” that saw some athletes being sent invitations to their own funerals . She decried the fact that terror was still a threat 52 years after her husband Andre was killed with 10 other competitors, coaches and referees

“They are the legacy of our families,” she told guests including Paris mayor Anne

Hidalgo of the class of 2024. “They are the answer to the horrors of 1972.”

Remembering “out loud” is not about ruining the Olympics, said Spitzer, but about keeping its ideals alive. “If you forget history you are bound to repeat it. We should all condemn terror now and forever. May our hostages comes home today. Am Yisrael Chai.”

Images of the victims of 1972 greeted guests on arrival and each of their names were read out after the recitation of the El Malai Rachamim memorial prayer.

President Isaac Herzog appeared on a video message to pay tribute to the tireless e orts of Spitzer and fellow widow Ilana Romano, who also spoke, in getting the IOC to honour the 11 within the context of the Olympics.

At London 2012, after 40 years of campaigning, a ceremony was held in the Olympic Village. At the last Games in Tokyo, the Israelis were finally remembered at the opening ceremony of an Olympics thanks to current president, Thomas Bach.

Turning to Spitzer and Romano, Bach said he and the families had “taken steps together. Having got to know you over many years you know what a ect your persistence and your friendship has had on me. I feel your pain, I admire your grace.

“My admiration for you is even greater

www.jewishlegacy.org.uk tel: 0203 375 6248 email: gina@jewishlegacygiving.org.uk

because you had to wait such a long time for this commemoration.”

In a powerful and heartfelt address, Bach added: “This was an attack on our fellow Olympians. It was an attack on our Olympic values at the very heart of our Games: the Olympic Village. It was a despicable attack on all of us. This is why 5 September 1972 is the darkest day in Olympic history.”

He added: “Some may say it’s naive. In our world torn apart by far too many conflicts, the Games prove we can still bring the entire world together.

“Athletes whose countries are currently at

war are living together under one roof in the Olympic village.”

Yael Arad, Israel’s first Olympic medalist and president of the country’s Olympic Committee, said “terror didn’t win” in 1972 and “our hearts are swelling with pride” at the successes of Paris delegation, who are testament to the resilience of the Israeli people following the Hamas attacks.

Echoing that message, Reuveny, who is Israel’s fourth ever gold medalist, told Jewish News: “Hearing the Hatikvah was a surreal experience. Being on the top and showing how strong we are is I think the biggest win we can get.”

Andi Murez, who competed in the swimming mixed medley relay, said the ceremony was more important than ever in 2024.

“Whenever a teammate had success with a medal it gives us pride and joy. Everyone was cheering and enjoying in our building when we won a medal.”

Among the guests was Israeli cycling team owner and uno cial sports ambassador Sylvan Adams, who said: “It very moving to participate in the ceremony commemorating the tragic events perpetrated by ruthless terrorists at the Munich Games. Particularly in this most di cult year following the savage attack of 7 October, and the latent worldwide antisemitism that this revealed.

“But the warm reception that our Israeli delegation has received in Paris, following the equally positive reception of my Israel Premiertech cycling team at the Tour de France, convinces me that the vast majority, the silent majority, are with us and against terror, intimidation and antisemitism.”

Ankie Spitzer has campaigned for decades on behalf of the other families who lost loved ones in the Munich attack

Israeli gold medal winner Tom Reuveny embraces Ankie Spitzer in Paris on Tuesday

Musk accused of spreading ‘false claims about Jews’

Elon Musk, owner of the X social media site, “should know better” than to use his profile and platform to promote “false and divisive claims” about Jews, the Community Security Trust has said, writes Adam Decker.

The billionaire businessman commented positively on a post by the far-right Visegrad 24 account on his platform which falsely claimed that the UK government was providing emergency security for all mosques in the UK, while neglecting the safety at “Jewish synagogues and Christian churches”.

Sharing the post, which was a response to the far-right led riots that have broken out across England and in Belfast, Musk posted that home secretary Yvette Cooper was behaving in a “one-sided” way by increasing security around mosques.

In reality the Home Office pro-

vides a grant of £18m a year to Jewish schools, synagogues and other communal buildings. The grant is administered by CST, which distributes it to relevant locations who have hired

security guards from commercial firms.

Responding to Musk’s post, Dave Rich, director of policy at the CST, said:”The original post is ignorant, and Elon Musk should know better than use his profile and platform to promote false and divisive claims of this nature.

“After October 7 this was increased with emergency uplift. The Home Office currently provides £18m per year …. and this has been pledged for the next four years.”

Sunder Katwala, director of the British Future think tank, posted on X: “Musk sharing a disinformation channel with its message designed to stoke inter-minority prejudice.

“There is a very effective programme of support for Jewish community spaces that this emergency support emulates.”

ISRAELI ATHLETES FLYING HIGH

Tom Reuveny (inset) won Israel’s first gold medal of the Paris Olympics Saturday in the men’s iQFoil windsurfing final, while Sharon Kantor nabbed silver in the women’s event and artistic gymnast Artem Dolgopyat (main image) won silver in the floor exercise. The three medals bring Israel’s total in Paris to six, beating its previous record of four at a single Olympics, which it achieved at the 2020 Tokyo Games. Saturday was also the first time Israel had won three medals in a day. Reuveny’s gold – Israel’s fourth ever – comes 20 years after his coach, Gal Fridman, won Israel’s first gold at the 2004 Games

TOPOL’S WIFE DIES

Galia Topol, wife of Israeli actor Chaim, died on Saturday in Tel Aviv, writes Brigit Grant.

Her death came days before the opening of Fiddler on the Roof at Regent’s Park Theatre, at which the couple’s granddaughter Darya Topol Margalith will debut Galia and Chaim’s children –Omer, Anat and Adi Topol Margalith – announced the news on Facebook.

Galia Finkelstein met the man who would be her husband when they were both serving in the IDF and part of Nahal, the entertainment troupe. Married in October 1956, they were two days into their honeymoon when Chaim was called up for duty in the Sinai campaign. After the war the couple lived on Kibbutz Mishmar David.

Briefly an actor herself, Galia starred alongside her husband in the films Boys Will Never Believe It in 1971, The Going Up of David Lev in 1973 and Again, Forever in 1985.

Topol, who died in March 2023, aged 87, was 29 when he auditioned for the role of Tevye in the London production of Fiddler in 1967. The production opened in February, but in June, with Israel fighting the Six Day War, he left the UK to go home. When he returned to London to complete the run, director Norman Jewison saw his performance as the milkman and cast him as Tevye in the 1971 film of Fiddler on the Roof • Fiddler on the Roof review, p28

Galia Topol with husband Chaim, who played Tevye the milkman

Elon Musk

Thanks, ‘world judo relief’!

A Ukrainian national judo team doctor has made it to the Paris Olympics — thanks to an extraordinary support programme for refugees in the UK, run by World Jewish Relief, writes Jenni Frazer.

Vitalii Sazonov and his wife Mariia were living in Irpin, near the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv, with their children –Polina, 14, Dima, eight, and Yeseniia, six – when Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022.

In fact Dr Sazonov, 39, was not with his family at the time, but was at a training camp in Spain. After anxious days of separation, the family was first reunited in the Czech Republic a month after the invasion before reaching this country on 6 August that year, via the UK’s Homes for Ukraine scheme.

Initially the Sazonovs, who are not Jewish, were taken in by a host family in the Cotswolds, where they have now made their home. But the Ukrainian nationals were faced with the huge challenge of rebuilding their lives, which is where World Jewish Relief was able to provide on-the-spot, practical help, with STEP Ukraine, its specialist training and employment programme.

Mariia Sazonov, 37, took part in the programme first. Funded by the British government, STEP Ukraine gives each

participant an employment adviser and teaches them English.

To date, the WJR programme has supported nearly 10,000 Ukrainian refugees who will not return to their country but will make their homes in the UK.

Speaking to the PA news agency from Paris, Vitalii Sazonov, who completed his STEP Ukraine training only days before going to the city to work with the five qualified Ukrainian judokas, said he now wanted to be a sports scientist in the UK, having specialised in sports medicine in Ukraine and previously worked part-time at Irpin Children’s and Youth Sports School.

“I always wanted to help young sports people and I was very proud of my job, but the whole wing of the sports school was destroyed by Russians,” he said.

“I can now say that my family are happy and all my children go to school and play sports like football, rugby and tennis and they have made new friends.

“They speak English very well and some British people have said my youngest daughter speaks with a Cotswolds accent like a native.”

STEP Ukraine is now one of WJR’s flagship programmes. It is designed to help Ukrainians displaced by war to find meaningful employment and improve

Save a Child’s Heart

“I have learned more about myself and the world I live in than I ever thought I would in the brief weeks working at SACH.”

volunteer.

Since its inception in 1996 SACH has saved the lives of over 7000 children in over 70 countries and trained 140 medical professionals so that they can continue to save more children’s lives in their home countries.

SACH is a non-governmental humanitarian organisation based in Israel. As long as children with rheumatic and congenital heart disease around the world continue to suffer without access to proper care, SACH will provide lifesaving heart surgeries, train medical professionals and raise the level of paediatric heart care worldwide.

their English. The programme includes an intensive 10 weeks of daily language classes, and 12 weeks of weekly employment support with a dedicated employment adviser, supporting them with CV writing, job applications, interview prep, job research and specialist workshops.

Paul Anticoni, WJR’s chief executive, told Jewish News the charity was “honoured” to support people like Vitalii to rebuild their lives in the UK.

“Despite the immense challenges he faced, Vitalii’s dedication to his family and his profession as a doctor is truly inspiring,” Anticoni said.

“Our work is grounded in 91 years of experience, assisting those displaced by conflict and persecution, and Vitalii’s story echoes our commitment to providing hope and opportunity to those in need.”

A spokesman the the charity added: “Nearly 100 years ago, World Jewish Relief helped 10,000 Jewish children escape the horrors of Nazi Europe through the Kindertransport. Today, it has supported 10,000 Ukrainian refugees through STEP Ukraine. This historic parallel underscores World Jewish Relief’s enduring commitment to supporting those impacted by conflict, crisis and disaster.”

On average SACH saves a life every 24 hours. This would not be possible without the help of volunteers, who play a crucial role in providing care and emotional support to the kids and their families pre and post-surgery. Being exposed to so many different cultures, languages and customs makes volunteering with SACH a uniquely special experience. We continue to need volunteers for programmes varying from three weeks to two months. You would need to find your own accommodation in Tel Aviv or the surrounding area and travel to Holon by public transport.

Email diane@saveachildsheart.com for further information

Leia Serlin,

Dr Vitalil Sazonov is in Paris thanks to World Jewish Relief

Couple who each lost a leg on 7 October walk down the aisle

The traditional Jewish wedding joke is that when the groom smashes the glass under the chupah, it’s the last time he puts his foot down, writes Michelle Rosenberg.

For Ben Binyamin and Gali Segal, the idea of a foot on the ground took on a new dimension, symbolising a determined step forward in their recovery from injuries sustained on 7 October.

The right leg the groom used to smash the glass on 25 July – surrounded by family and friends – and the right leg his bride used to dance with her new husband were both prosthetic.

The couple were engaged a week before 7 October. As part of their celebrations, they decided to go to the Nova music festival near Kibbutz Re’im. When terrorists struck, the two ran amid the terror of overhead rocket attacks and hid in a roadside shelter near Alumim Junction.

They survived gunfire at the

entrance because they were towards the back, but then the terrorists hurled deadly grenades inside. Rendered unconscious, both Ben and Gali lost their right legs that day.

In November, Gali told Israel’s Channel 12: “We want to come to the wedding walking. Only then will we get married.”

And after months of rehabilitation at Tel Hashomer hospital, and after practising their wedding dance, it finally happened. Mazeltov!

Mazeltov! Gali and Ben in celebration mood on on their wedding day and, right, showing their prosthetic legs

Rehovot

Tel

Tel

Zichron

Ariel Bibas’ fifth birthday marked with Batman party

Hundreds of community members and allies gathered in Hendon on Monday to mark hostage Ariel Bibas’s fifth birthday, writes Adam Decker .

Co-organised by the Hostages & Missing Families Forum UK and Stop the Hate UK (formerly known as Enough is Enough), participants celebrated Ariel’s birthday with a Batman-themed event, complete with balloons, cupcakes and face painting.

The Bibas family, including Ariel, his baby brother, Kfir, his mother, Shiri, and father, Yarden, have been held captive in Gaza for nearly 10 months. Since then, there has been little concrete information on their location or welfare.

Terror group Hamas has claimed that the children are no longer alive, but the IDF has not found any evidence to support this.

Dr Chaya Langerman, spokesperson for both organisations, told Jewish News : “Nine months have passed, and the world seems to be forgetting about Ariel. But how can we accept a reality where a child is denied the simple joy of celebrating his birthday in

freedom?

“We must act now – no more waiting, no more silence. Ariel and his family deserve to come home. If Ariel could make a birthday wish, it would be for his freedom.

“This is the wish the world needs to hear and act upon now.”

Joining the event in Sunnyhill Park was

Benzi Brofman, an internationallyrenowned street artist and muralist who has worked tirelessly since 7 October to create enduring images of those kidnapped by Hamas. Brofman painted a mural of Ariel, which he hopes one day to present to the family.

Reverend Hayley Ace, co-founder of

Christian Action against Antisemitism and spokesperson for Stop the Hate UK, told Jewish News: “We believe as Christians that it is not enough to say we are praying for Israel – we must stand alongside the Jewish community.

“It is unthinkable that the world is remaining almost entirely silent on the brutal kidnapping of an entire family. It is shocking how much denial there is among the British public.

“We will not allow Ariel and his family to be forgotten. We invite all compassionate individuals to join us in calling for their return and raising awareness of their plight.”

Amongst the hundreds of parents and young children joining Ariel’s birthday celebrations was 17-year-old Jude. His message was simple:

“Free the hostages. This is not to do with politics. It is not a political message.

“There are many innocent people still being held captive in Gaza and we want them home.”

Children, many as young as Kfir, arrived in fancy dress and held up signs of the birthday boy on the day he turns five in captivity

Hundreds of people gathered in Hendon this week to mark little Kfir’s fifth birthday

Birthday cupcakes handed out to the crowd

The Bibas family before tragedy struck

020 8194 6194

info@myhousing.co.uk www.myhousing.co.uk

London’s Premier Rent Guarantee Company

Experience a hassle-free renting process using My Housing's rent guarantee model, where personal service seamlessly intertwines with professional excellence.

Our dedicated team ensure that landlords receive unparalleled support, from rent guarantee solutions to meticulous property care

Client feedback

It’s really important to me that my properties are kept in good order, and I comply with the regulations. My Housing have made sure that this is the case. Louise, Landlady, 5 Properties

YOUR RENTAL INCOME GUARANTEED FOR UP TO 5 YEARS NO VOIDS. EVEN IF YOUR PROPERTY IS VACANT

NO MANAGEMENT FEES

YOUR PROPERTY RENTED WITHIN 48 HOURS POST INSPECTION ANY MALICIOUS DAMAGE COVERED YOUR RENT PAID ON TIME

Call us on 020 8194 6194 and quote ‘JN1’

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

The BBC’s world of whataboutery

In its obsession with being all things to all people all the time, the BBC has long forgotten a basic moral truth: a terrorist is a terrorist is a terrorist. Sometimes, whether it feels inclusive or not, you just have to call things what they are.

On 7 October, the broadcaster made the egregious error of not calling Hamas what it is (heaven forbid labelling them “terrorists” might provoke emails from “Disgusted from a tunnel in Beit Hanoun”), leading last week to 208 employees expressing “anguish” and “despair” over its Gaza coverage. Its output – which at times, especially on its often toxic Arabic network, has appeared ambivalent, even sympathetic, towards the perpetrators of 7 October – was tackled head on in a meeting last Friday between director-general Tim Davie and the Board of Deputies. Of course, there should be no ambiguity, even in the BBC’s world of whataboutery, in calling out terrorists. By obtusely refusing to, the BBC fails to protect its moral authority. Rather, it destroys it.

The Beeb is a national institution. Alongside red phone boxes and double-decker buses, 102-year-old Auntie is recognised worldwide.

If it does not want to lose its hard-won reputation for British decency, it has to finally open its eyes to the blurring of moral lines within its ranks.

Nakedly political decision

Your political editor has suggested the new UK government’s refusal to pursue a legal opposition to the ICC prosecutor’s request for arrest warrants (against Benjamin Netanyahu and Yoav Gallant) was “a sign that the UK government recognises the ICC’s power to make legal decisions”.

He also claims, I suspect in reference to the JLC and Board of Deputies’ statement that this was a significant UK foreign policy shift away from Israel, that the move was “not a judgment on the case for or against” Netanyahu and Gallant, and that it simply represented Sir Keir Starmer’s repeated “belief in the rules-based system and commitment to abiding by international law”. These are all virtually the same reasons the government itself gave (Jewish News, 25 July), so they deserve further analysis.

Respectfully, however, none of these reasons are accurate. The proposed legal observations were requested specifically and duly granted to the (then-Conservative) government by the ICC itself. Far from barging in with an unexpected

rebellious intervention, it is the UK’s legal right to raise such objections – that right comes from Rule 103 of the ICC’s Rules of Evidence and Procedure. Many states, NGOs and individuals have already filed such observations in this case under Rule 103.

If the ICC has therefore given the UK and others this right, it is disingenuous to suggest that pursuing the objection would betray the government’s respect for international law and the ICC’s ability to make its own decisions. Rule 103 is designed to help the ICC make better decisions by allowing it to consider arguments not put to it by the parties themselves.

Short of offering up any actual legal reasons for withdrawing a substantive legal objection, the government’s decision is indeed a “judgment on the merits of the case for or against”. More than that – it is a nakedly political decision. And the JLC and Board were therefore entirely correct to point that out. Naji Tilley, By emai

NOT ON BOARD THE TIME TO RETIRE

I’m ‘bored’ of Deputies. A month ago, their hierarchy of self-professed brown-nose Labour supporters welcomed the new government, having forgiven Sir Keir Starmer for his links with Jeremy Corbyn and saying Labour would be good for Israel.

In this short space of time, we now have the Board of Deputies protesting at the government’s possible decision to ban arms to Israel and its failure to condemn the recent ICC decision.

Could the Board let us know exactly where it and its central London Labour supporters [champagne and cigars all round] stand on Israel, or is it too late?

Llewellyn Gaba, By email

RABBI RIGHT ABOUT ISRAEL

In the issue of 1 August, Lucy Solomon condemned my colleague Rabbi Lara Haft Yom-Tov’s “blood libel” of suggesting “Israeli politicians are deliberately starving Gazans and celebrating it”.

Perhaps Ms Solomon missed defence minister Gallant’s words (9 October 2023): “There will be no electricity, no food, no fuel … We are fighting human animals.” Perhaps she also missed energy minister Katz’s tweet (13 October): “They will not receive a single drop of water … until they leave the world.”

Perhaps she also missed it when Major-General Alian, the IDF’s commander in the West Bank, said (9 October): “No electricity, no water, just damage.”

Perhaps she also missed it when heritage minister Eliyahu gloated (1 November) about how “the north of the Gaza strip [will be] more beautiful than ever … blown up and flattened, simply a pleasure for the eyes.”

Perhaps she also missed it when Colonel Bar-Sheshet, the IDF’s deputy commander in the West Bank, said (4 November): “Whoever returns [to Gaza…] will find … no houses, no agriculture, nothing. They have no future.”

It is not a “blood libel” to refer to statements made by Israel’s political and military leaders.

Rabbi Gabriel Kanter-Webber, Brighton and Hove Progressive Synagogue

I concur with Rabbi Mark Goldsmith’s comment (Leap of Faith, 1 August): “Good succession planning is the mark of good leadership.” What amused me were his two examples – King David and President Biden. Surely it was King David’s own failure to publicise early his intentions which resulted in a nearly successful coup and put his younger son Solomon’s life in danger. As far as Biden is concerned, it is apparent he withdrew from the nomination only at ‘the last minute’ due to severe pressure. A worthy example of very bad leadership while experiencing cognitive decline. Warren Braham, Hendon

ACTION, NOT TALK, IS HOW TO STOP IRAN

When much of the world’s media places greater emphasis on describing “the occupied territories in the Golan” than the outcome of the heinous attack that killed 12 young people, decision time looms.

People have been prone on many occasions to compare Middle East issues with the Irish problem as equally solvable.

HERE’S THE STATE

However, as has been proved many times, when you have an agent provocateur such as Iran that weaponises proxies to try to eradicate a nation state, there can be only one type of response – and that is not sitting down for a tete-a-tete Stephen Vishnick, Tel Aviv

WE NEED TO REACH

With the world convinced that a two-state solution is the inevitable outcome for Israel, it may be impossible to resist forever. The answer to when that should happen is staring people in the face. When Hamas is removed from power, rocket fire ends and it recognises Israel. When Hezbollah and its masters in Iran do the same and rockets from Lebanon cease too.

When the world acknowledges that the West Bank is no more occupied than it was by Jordan for 20 years before 1967 and peace treaties are signed, there is a Palestinian state ready and waiting –currently called Gaza. Until then, Israel has every right to stand firm.

The UN and democratic nations need to understand this and that the only democratic state in the Middle East will not cave in.

Perhaps, in the meantime, they could speak up for the Rohingya Muslims persecuted in Myanmar. Nobody is marching through London on their behalf. Or for the wholesale slaughter in Darfur, or the venomous Islamist Boko Haram kidnapping young girls in Africa. Right now there is only one villain, fighting for the return of its people from Gaza.

Whatever one’s view of a dodgy prime minister with a prison sentence hanging over him, a small state is fighting for its life.

When anyone asks if you support a two-state solution, show them these terms and tell them when the one state under threat is safe, it will finally be the time for consideration.

Barry Hyman, Bushey Heath

VOICE OF THE JEWISH NEWS

Rabbi Lara debacle not another ‘Jacobs Affair’

Yet more ink has been spilled on the controversy surrounding Masorti rabbi Lara Haft Yom-Tov at one of the country’s largest synagogues, the New North London, after they (Rabbi Lara uses they/their pronouns) referred to some in Israeli leadership as being war criminals and deliberately instigating famine in Gaza.

The latest piece from Rabbi Anthony Lazarus Magrill of the Mosaic Masorti Synagogue published in Jewish News last month is worthy of our attention to highlight misunderstandings he stirs. The first is his likening of this furore to the ‘Jacobs A air’.

Let us all take stock. The infamous Jacobs A air, which dates back to the 1960s, is hardly worthy of comparison. If anything it is an insult to Rabbi Dr Louis Jacobs’ profound legacy. The prominent theologian had argued in his book We Have Reason To Believe for a more critical and historical approach to the

understanding of Torah, suggesting it was not directly dictated by God to Moses, but divinely developed over time. It was for this reason that he was passed over for the position of principal of Jews’ College and that his subsequent appointment as the rabbi of the New West End Synagogue was blocked by the then Chief Rabbi Israel Brodie, which in turn sparked community-wide uproar.

Drawing an analogy between the damaging words on Israel, which have been appropriated from anti-Zionist detractors and remain unsubstantiated, and Rabbi Jacobs’ perspective on the multiple authorship of the Torah, backed up by several generations of scholarly opinion seems ludicrous.

It is the central thrust of Rabbi Magrill’s argument which should most concern us.

In his assertion that the Masorti movement values debate over ideological purity the only inference that we can draw is that it is possible to hold any opinion within the movement so long as one is open to having a discussion about it. This approach, which favours discourse without guard rails, is certainly not the Masorti way as it leaves

From individuals items and specialist collections to complete house clearances,

• As an independent broker acting on your behalf, I aim to get the highest prices for your pieces

• No need to worry about posting your valuables

• I sell through many different auction houses, high-end dealers, collectors and private clients

• With over 18 years in business you will always receive my personal discreet one-to-one service

• Free consultations at your convenience

it open to a usurpation from the extremes which it was founded to protect against It is true that the movement is a broad tent, but indicating that it is one in which there are no sides, as Rabbi Magrill intimates, is o the mark. Emerging in the late 19th century, Masorti has sought to conserve tradition while allowing for adaptation.

Its approach to God, Torah and community are guided by a respect for Jewish heritage with an openness to modern scholarship. It is this ethos that provides the framework within which debate takes place and certainly not as some free for all as suggested by Rabbi Magrill.

On the subject of Israel itself, even from its early days, it emphasised the importance of Zionism as a unifying force for Jews worldwide. Solomon Schechter, one of the early presidents of the Jewish Theological Seminary in New York, was prophetic in his contention in 1905 that “Zionism’s ultimate aim is the regeneration of the Jewish people”. Embracing Zionism with an accompanying sense of healthy scepticism, the hallmark of Masorti’s centrist approach, is also a guiding

pillar for the movement.

This brings us to the third element that we must take issue with Rabbi Magrill – his take on the so-called apology pro ered by Rabbi Haft Yom-Tov. While it was indeed fulsome in relation to the language they used in reference to some in Israel’s leadership, it left much to be desired. There was no expression of regret for the phrase they used calling for the “ending of civilisations” – circumspect reference to Israel itself. Even in the apology itself, Rabbi Haft Yom-Tov spoke of their campaigning for open borders during their time studying in Israel. These two factors surely put the rabbi outside any Zionist camp.

The late Rabbi Dr Louis Jacobs, setting out his stall during his very first sermon at the New London Synagogue, declared: ‘’We do not subscribe to the doctrine, Hold what you like as long as you hold your tongue.”

This was, however, in no way an appeal to voicing any old view but rather those guided by tradition, scholarship and truth – the ideological building blocks of Masorti Judaism. Its leadership would do well to emulate his legacy.

Defiling Anne’s memory does nothing for Gaza

KAREN POLLOCK CHIEF EXECUTIVE, HOLOCAUST EDUCATIONAL TRUST

Last weekend marked 80 years since Anne Frank and her family were arrested, the moment they had done everything they could to avoid. But the Nazis aimed to annihilate every single Jew everywhere, and the Jewish people hiding in the now-infamous annex could not escape their grasp.

Anne Frank’s name might be the best recognised of the Holocaust, an entry-point for generations to consider the horrors of the past. Confiding in Kitty, the nickname given to her personal diary, the teenager wrote about things to which we can all relate. She wrote about the arguments she had with her parents, the struggle of being isolated and her dreams for the future. Her story lives on, even years after we have read her diary. Many of us see our own lives reflected in the words, seeing ourselves in Anne and seeing Anne in ourselves.

But the truth is what happened to Anne and her family and to six million other Jewish people is anything but relatable. The vast majority of the millions who have read the diary could not have been Anne, would never have had to hide, to go without daylight, to have to stay silent every day, to be hunted by secret police, to be ripped from their childhoods, their friends and their schools.

They would not have been deported to a concentration camp like Anne. They would not have been murdered for who they were and dumped in a mass grave along with thousands of other victims.

Put simply, what happened to Anne and her family and six million Jewish men, women and children, happened for a very specific reason – because they were Jews.

So while we can all feel a connection to Anne, while we can all read her diary and reflect on our own lives, we also need to tell her story with integrity and truth. Because what happened to Anne and her family did not happen because they were human, but only because of who they were.

And now, in 2024, 80 years after her

arrest, a statue of Anne Frank was defaced, for the second time, with the words ‘Free Gaza’.

Anne’s hands on the statue were painted red – somehow suggesting Anne Frank, a Jewish teenager who died in Bergen-Belsen concentration camp in the most appalling conditions almost eight decades ago, before the state of Israel existed, has blood on her hands. That somehow this child who was hunted down by the Nazis and killed simply because she was Jewish is responsible for the deaths of people in Gaza, in 2024.

One week earlier, a mural of Anne draped in a traditional Palestinian ke yeh was painted on the streets of Oslo. Day in and day out, Anne Frank’s name and image can be seen in contexts that are not about her Holocaust experience.

Instead of remembering who Anne was, why she was unique and why she was murdered, her memory is being corrupted by those with a cause.

Anne Frank is not an accessory for anyone’s activism. She is not just a symbol. Her story cannot be taken out of the context of the life she lived, and the reason for her

death. And what is more, defacing her likeness does not raise the profile of any issue or galvanise support for a cause. It is reckless, it is ignorant, it is hurtful. And it is antisemitism, pure and simple.

Victims of the Holocaust should be honoured and remembered, not appropriated for political causes.

When the images and names associated with the Holocaust are taken and twisted, when the truth of the Holocaust is distorted or diluted for a ect, it does not help the people of Gaza.

But it does hurt the survivors of the Holocaust, who have endured the very worst of humanity. It does hurt the memory of the past. It does hurt Jewish people today.

Anne Frank once wrote: “I want to go on living after my death.” We have always said that through her diary, through her story, and through the connection so many feel to Anne that she does live on.

But it is a great shame and tragedy that today, 80 years after Anne was discovered and taken to her death, we have to work so hard to protect her memory.

False assumptions about Israel damage everybody

DAVE RICH DIRECTOR OF POLICY, COMMUNITY SECURITY TRUST

This week’s report from the Community Security Trust showing a record level of antisemitism in the first six months of 2024 continues and underlines what we have all known since 7 October last year: something changed for Jews around the world on that awful day, and we are still feeling the effects of it several months later.

In a way, this isn’t new. We have seen before whenever conflict flares in the Middle East, anti-Jewish hate surges globally. The current war has gone on much longer than other recent rounds of conflict and has been more deadly and destructive, so it stands to reason the antisemitism it triggers should also be more enduring, more widespread and more harmful. Still, we should never accept it as normal. No other overseas conflict provokes even a fraction of the hateful, divisive rhetoric and activism that circu-

lates when Israel is at war; neither does it spark waves of hate crimes in the way wars involving Israel do. To observe this obvious truth is not an attempt to divert attention from Gaza or trick people into limiting their criticism of Israeli policies and actions. But when protests and anger toward Israel rise and fall in correlation with surges in anti-Jewish hate, it is fair to think there must be a connection.

When someone sprays red paint all over a chanukiah and then daubs ‘Gaza’ in big red letters on the wall next to it, as happened in London in May, it is a visual representation of exactly the link we all know intuitively is there. To pretend the kind of extreme, obsessive hatred of Israel we have seen over the past nine months has nothing to do with antisemitism, to imagine it can exist without in any way encouraging people also to hate Jews, is to suspend all rational thinking.

This connection is borne out in CST’s figures. More than half the antisemitic incidents in the first half of this year involved some reference to Hamas, Israel or the ongoing war, alongside anti-Jewish hate.

Not enough effort is made by the leaders

THIS EXTREMISM IS A THREAT NOT ONLY TO US BUT TO UK DEMOCRACY AND THE RULE OF LAW

of Britain’s pro-Palestinian movement to reject this association. Until we see stewards on the pro-Palestinian marches telling people to throw away their placards comparing Israel to Nazi Germany or claiming ‘Zionists’ control the British government and media, it’s hard to believe they take antisemitism seriously at all. Underpinning all this is vast ignorance about Jews, Israel, Zionism and antisemitism. This lack of knowledge leaves a vacuum that is filled with the lies, halftruths and twisted narratives of social media. There is an urgent need to revamp our education, of both Jewish and nonJewish children and adults, to correct some

of the more damaging misconceptions and false assumptions that have taken root. It is sometimes hard to remember this is coming from a small minority of people. It may not feel like it, but most people in Britain don’t care either way about Israel, Gaza, Hamas or the whole conflict.

This is no consolation if you have just been called child-killer by some random stranger in the street, or if your children are being bullied at school or university because they won’t accept Israel is committing a genocide. But it is true nonetheless, just as it is the case most people find antisemitism abhorrent and reject the radical politics that propels it.

This is helpful, because while the Jewish community is strong and resourceful, we cannot solve this problem on our own. The kind of extremism that sees British arms factories or banks smashed up by antiIsrael agitators is not only a concern for British Jews; it is a threat to British democracy and to the rule of law.

It is a truism that while antisemitism targets Jews, it endangers wider society, dividing communities and undermining the shared values that hold us together.

We can trace the lineage of this far-right violence

PHIL ROSENBERG PRESIDENT, BOARD OF DEPUTIES

Over the past week the UK has seen an outbreak of lawlessness and thuggery which has been shocking to witness. We at the Board of Deputies have condemned unequivocally the unprovoked attacks on Muslims, black people, members of the other minorities and the brave police officers trying to protect those on the receiving end of this violence, which has broken out around the country from Southend to Sunderland.

There have been awful scenes, most notably in Tamworth where, but for swift action by the police, asylum seekers at a local hotel would almost certainly have come to harm as the mob broke in.

For the Jewish community this is a worrying development. We know only too well the consequences of far-right actions such as these. There is a traceable lineage of far-right racism which has

evolved from Mosley’s Blackshirts, through the National Front and the British National Party. The rioters attacking minorities this week share all the toxic views, including antisemitism, that characterised these previous incarnations of xenophobia and hatred.

This is a time of acute concern for Jews in the UK. We have been on the sharp end of different strands of extremism in the past few years. The Board of Deputies has fought back against the far-left antisem-

RIOTS ACROSS THE UK HAVE BEEN BLAMED ON ISRAEL – ONE DESCRIBING THE VIOLENCE AS ‘A FLEXING OF

itism which infected the Labour Party under Jeremy Corbyn’s leadership and in the months since the 7 October attacks we have been subjected to intimidation and hate from Islamist antisemites with their hateful slogans, swastikas and Nazi salutes.

Worryingly, we have begun in the past few days to see some malign twisting of the facts. Riots across the United Kingdom involving far-right elements have been blamed on Israel by a range of online accounts, with an anti-Zionist commenter describing the upsurge of violence as “a flexing of Zionist muscle”.

On the Iranian state-sponsored channel Press TV, one presenter characterised the riots as “Israel sending a message to the British people”. And a far-right influencer suggested that Tommy Robinson (also known as Stephen Yaxley-Lennon) had sparked the riots to punish the government for suspending arms export licences to Israel.

As ever, Jews are the target of choice for conspiracy theorists from the right, the left and Islamist groups. It is not acceptable and we need leaders to calm this out.

We have seen how the racists operate,

indiscriminately, and we must not help them with their strategy.

The communities who are being targeted by the haters must respond by showing unity and mutual respect.

Recently we held a meeting of Jewish and Muslim leaders at the Board of Deputies o ces, which included the first o cial appearance by communities minister Lord Khan. I described this coming together of minorities as an ‘Optimistic Alliance’.

I see it as the beginning of a journey together, from a place of death and destruction, of division and despair, to a place of hope.

This is not, however, just about the minority communities. As a society, we have to be better than this. We need to hold a national conversation about how we promote respect for our country and respect for each other, and how about we tackle extremism and build cohesion.

These riots have been a warning and one that we all need to heed. We must come together to defeat prejudice and to build a society of which we can all be proud.

FACTS, EVIDENCE, PROOF BY THE THOUSANDS MAYBE IF IT WERE WIDELY KNOWN IT WOULD CHANGE MINDS

The Hand Made Map of the World was painted in 2013 by Tam Joseph. He was born in Dominica in 1947 and migrated here in 1955. He lives and works in London.

Since 2002 Ben Uri Museum in NW8 exhibits and collects, and our Research Unit since 2018 studies, digitally records, shares and celebrates the seminal Jewish, Refugee and wide Immigrant contribution to British visual arts since 1900.

We are one of the country’s leading educational resources on this vital aspect of social integration.

Explore and be inspired at

• Buru.org.uk sharing 1,000 principally European researched profiles

• Diaspora-artists.net sharing 2,300 principally Black and Asian researched profiles

• Benuri.org sharing over 12,000 pages of facts, evidence, proof across 70 online exhibitions, 900 collection art works, 400 essays, 200 films, podcasts and lectures plus a whole lot more

We advocate the immense contribution by Refugees and Immigrants to Britain should be taught in schools as part of the National curriculum. Please join us and support our mission at benuri.org Gallery opens every Wednesday to Friday at 108a Boundary Road, NW8 0RH

The best places in London for afternoon tea

A Truly FEIN FIDDLER

Brigit Grant delights in the opening of Fiddler on the Roof at Regent’s Park

Open Air Theatre

Dame Arlene Phillips was discussing the finer points of Israeli dancing with a young performer. Lesley Joseph (fresh out of SisterAct) dipped into the programme, David Tennant dipped his cap and while Nick Ferrari sipped champagne with Jeremy Vine, theatre producer Kenny Wax, now MBE, waved at those he knows in other rows. Starry and electric with not a single empty seat, the opening of Jordan Fein’s FiddlerontheRoof at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre was always going to be a big night. When and wherever the beloved Joseph Stein and Sheldon Harnick musical opens, a Jewish audience can be relied on for ticket sales. But when it was announced as part of the theatre’s summer season, we – as in the community – were overwhelmed by the need to support it: to be wrapped in the comfort it provides and to feel reassured, however briefly, that this

story about our people matters in these interminable dark times. That Fein would bring his heart to this production, there was no doubt. Fiddler was the first show he ever saw – “I was seven or eight and I was mesmerised,” and the story of milkman Tevye and his family in Anatevka was experienced by Fein’s great-grandparents, who immigrated from Kiev to America in 1910.

Bringing his Jewish history to his interpretation of the show makes it deeply personal –the icing on the lokshen pudding so to speak – and the result is an emotional (but not too much) sweet (but not sickly) and modern (yet

draped in tradition) production that hits all the right notes by staying familiar with only the occasional curveball to make it interesting.

One such curveball was a kiss. Since the show was first performed in 1964 we have never seen any of Tevye’s three oldest daughters make more than a pledge to their suitors but here Fein emboldens Hodel (Georgia Bruce) and she gets to make a move. Unsettling for some, perhaps, but it was joyous

– though thankfully out of Tevye’s eyeshot. To the role of Tevye, Broadway star Adam Dannheisser brings a compelling mix of quiet dignity and the occasional cheeky expression while exuding reliability and reason. This is a tough role for any actor as comparisons are always drawn with the late Chaim Topol, who set the bar ludicrously high with his portrayal of Tevye in the 1971 film. But there are moments in Dannheisser’s performance when he conjures up Topol with a look and that will make you cry.

There are more tears when Topol’s granddaughter, Darya Topol-Margalith, comes on stage as youngest daughter Schprintze for the legacy comes full circle. Losing her grandmother, Galia Topol, days before the opening wasn’t easy for the young performer and with her mother Adi in Israel for the funeral, only her father Dror Margalith was in the audience for her stage debut.

The Anatevka set by Tom Scutt is ingenious and beautiful as he has managed to create a wheatfield along a ramp that disappears into the trees. Making their entrances in this JeanFrançois Millet-inspired setting with Motel (Dan Wolff) impressively doing so on a bike, it also serves a place for Raphael Papo’s fiddler to hide and for Hannah Bristow as Chava to play poignantly on the clarinet as she stands on the edge. Symbolic in so

many ways the field is such a clever touch and there are others such as the extensive use of bedsheets in Tevye’s dream when the Anatevka villagers sit along a table which doubles as a bed for Tevye and Golda and at the far end departed Grandma Tzeitel. The interesting twist here is that Tzeitel (Liv Andrusier) is in on her father’s faux nightmare.

Julia Cheng’s pulsing choreography is very detailed and so entertaining and as the company boasts the footwork talents of Greg Bernstein (Mendel, the rabbi’s son) this was to be expected. Most would happily have sat through the Bottle Dance twice and they really should consider a reprise in the wheatfield some time before the end of the run.

The night before the show opened a pro-Palestinian contingent with flags gathered at the café next door the theatre. Small in number, their presence was a reminder that Fiddler being at the Open Air at all is, as Motel sings Miracle of Miracles

The musical has always been a precious gift and Jordan Fein has underlined this fact with a production that everyone should see, and those who need to see it most are the people now struggling to accept that Jews have always been persecuted and have been repeatedly forced from their homelands.

Sadly it’s become a ‘tradition’.

A corner of Regent’s Park becomes Anatevka as a wheatfield disappears into the trees in Jordan Fein’s Fiddler

Dannheisser (Tevye) and Darya (Schprintze)

Julia Cheng’s choreography is detailed and entertaining, and the production stays familiar with only the occasional curveball

Photos by JMarc Brenner

The best places to indulge in afternoon tea, including the finest kosher offerings. By Louisa Walters

One of the best things about Britain is that we can lay claim to one of the finest institutions of all time –afternoon tea. Not only that, but we have an annual celebration of it in the form of Afternoon Tea Week (12-18 August). Seven whole days to perfect the art of the perfect cuppa and work out which way round to do the cream and jam. Here are 12 places in which to do it.

SPECIAL OFFER

The Corinthia

This truly indulgent traditional afternoon tea is on offer at a very special price midweek throughout August. Enjoy a selection of finely brewed teas and delectable sweet and savoury treats in the beautiful Crystal Moon Lounge under the glow of a chandelier adorned with 1,001 Baccarat crystals, accompanied by the melodic tinkling of the pianist’s keys.

Monday to Thursday 2pm-4.30pm

finest kosher afternoon tea offers a selection of mini bagel sandwiches, scones and desserts served with English tea.

Sunday to Friday all day, from £24

OUTSIDE LONDON

Sopwell House

£55; Friday to Sunday 1pm-5.30pm £85

THEMED TEA

The Capital Hotel

The Mad Hatters Afternoon Tea has been designed using iconic themes from the classic tale Alice in Wonderland. Striped macarons reflect the Cheshire Cat, and delicate mushroom shapes hide a wonderful taste sensation, complemented with traditional sandwiches.

Daily 12 noon-5 pm, from £59

KOSHER TEA

Reubens Café & Bakery

I’m not sure what the Duchess of Bedford would have said in 1840 about her afternoon snack appearing in the form of a bagel, but that’s how they do things at this new opening on Baker Street (opposite the iconic restaurant). London’s

TRADITIONAL TEA

The Langham

British afternoon tea in a picturesque setting in 12 acres of Hertfordshire countryside. Enjoy a selection of finger sandwiches and savouries, homemade scones, and indulge your sweet tooth on treats from macarons and cakes to mousses and pastries. Sip from a selection of teas and infusions, including Sopwell’s very own house Assam blend.

Daily 1pm-3pm, from £37

POSH TEA

The Dorchester Tradition is reinvented with bold new flavours and creative craftsmanship, reflecting the British spirit of the hotel. Guests are invited to sip champagne and fine teas in the grand surroundings, while enjoying delicate finger sandwiches, lightas-a-feather scones, and jewel-like seasonal cakes and pastries such as strawberry roulade and pistachio choux with apricot compote.

Daily 12 noon-4:30pm, from £95

The Langham was the first grand hotel to serve afternoon tea, in 1865. Overseen by Michel Roux Jr, the menu is inspired by Britain’s most beloved cakes, biscuits and sweets. Alongside delicate savouries and freshly baked scones, elegant interpretations of classics include a reimagining of an Angel Cake with a vanilla sponge and whipped coconut and pineapple compote, and, inspired by a Twix, comes Twice as Nice with shortbread, taïnori cream and salted caramel.

Wednesday to Sunday 12.30pm-4.30pm, from £80

SUMMER TEA

The Biltmore

Summer afternoon tea includes exotic flavours of mango and saffron kadaif, and pineapple savarin. Traditional flavours are also incorporated, including creamy raspberry compote and ricotta mousse and refreshing wild strawberry tart. Finish your tea with rich coffee crème brûlée, a perfect blend of coffee and caramelised sugar.

Daily 12:30pm-5pm, from £80

MICHELIN-STARRED

Pavyllon London, Four Seasons

Michelin-starred French Chef

Yannick Alléno provides pictureperfect patisserie at the La Vie En Rose Afternoon Tea. Enjoy delicate

finger sandwiches followed by three tiers of luxury sweet treats such as strawberry and eucalyptus tart; lime and vanilla baba; dark fruit pavlova; and Pimm’s-style raspberries with chocolate and caramel, alongside ‘So British’ scones.

Friday to Sunday 2.30pm-4.30pm, from £75

FOR FAMILIES

Pan Pacific London

A children’s afternoon tea and infinity pool experience is perfect for all the family. The tea features sweet treats and finger sandwiches while the hotel’s sensory floor has a transformed infinity pool area with deckchairs, parasols, and themed pool floats during children’s swim hours. Children aged can also enjoy special spa treatments in collaboration with Bonpoint, including The Dreamy Treatment for parent-child duos.

Thursday to Monday 12.30pm-4pm, from £29

FLAVOUR FEST

Cinnamon Bazaar

Vivek Singh’s Indian-inspired take on a classic afternoon tea in Covent Garden, bringing fire and spice to a traditional tea-time spread. Seamlessly marrying the flavours of East India with modern culinary techniques, this afternoon tea is reimagined with highlights

including Masala fish finger sandwiches, Kadhai chicken spring rolls and saffron and pistachio macarons. Daily, from £27.50

OUTSIDE LONDON

Down Hall Hotel

Afternoon tea in the Essex countryside. The newly renovated Grand Hall within the 19th century mansion provides an idyllic setting to sample Britain’s favourite pastime. Enjoy moreish finger sandwiches, carefully crafted cakes and pastries. Complete the occasion with a glass of champagne to make the day even more special. Daily, from £55

BOTANICAL TEA

London Marriott Hotel

Park Lane

Inspired by English gardens and ingredients, this has a pretty pastries, dainty finger sandwiches and indulgent sweet treats. Highlights include a lavender and white chocolate mousse handbag, milk chocolate Sacher royal hat and a Battenburg London telephone box, as well as an array of savoury treats. Friday to Sunday 12 noon-4pm, from £50

The Corinthia Reubens Café & Bakery

The Capital

The Langham Cinnamon Bazaar

The Dorchester

London Marriott Hotel Park Lane

Celebrate August’s Afternoon Tea delight and let us make your experience extra bright!

Indulge in our summer special: Traditional Afternoon Tea for just £55 AVAILABLE MONDAY

MAKING SENSE OF THE SEDRA

In our thought-provoking series, rabbis,

RABBI ARIEL ABEL CF LLM CHAPLAIN IN THE BRITISH ARMY & PRACTISING SOLICITOR

avoids mentioning the reason. He also speaks of the settlement by the tribes of Reuben, Gad and Menashe on the East Bank of the Jordan and the plan for future battles to be led by his successor-in-waiting, Joshua.

Close to the end of his life Moses gives a sermon marathon – several weeks’ worth of Torah reading. This Shabbat, in Devarim, we begin reading that trilogy, which recounts key events in Israel’s 40 years of wandering in the deserts of the Sinai Peninsula and south of Canaan. Moshe rebukes his people for their restlessness, misconduct and lack of faith. He encourages them to adhere to the Torah as it will be their heritage which will accompany them into the Promised Land after he dies. Moshe points out that he set up a court system to dispense justice and took the brunt of Divine anger for the rebellion of the spies. He mentions that God decreed that he was barred from entering the Promised Land but

In this way, Moshe highlights his own successes near the end of his own life, against the background of failure to coalesce as a people and face their fears in the first 38 years of desert travel. Moshe was unable to lead militarily until this point because the spies who negatively reported their scouting mission to Canaan years earlier prevented him from taking full charge of the people.

Therefore, in the short, two-year window before his death, a very elderly Moshe led intensive battles and prepared the way for Joshua. Thousands of years later came the Temples and their eventual destruction by the Babylonians and by the Romans, respectively.

The pain of destruction, displacement and exile kept on summarising itself in the

hope eternal of return to Zion. The return to Zion is not a takeover of Jews of anyone else’s land: it was, is and always will be, a return to a land, known as the Promised Land, promised to the descendants of Abraham and Isaac. The mullahs of the Iranian regime know this extremely well. Moses’s words to the people of Israel revolve entirely around the matter of the Promised Land: its centrality to Moses and his life’s mission.

The fact that Moses himself could not cross the Jordan was the sorest point in his long and busy life, and one which he never got

over. This time of uncertainty vis-a-vis the current regime in Iran and its proxies around the Middle East preoccupies all of us.

Persia was not always an enemy of Israel. In 1979, the last flight out of Tehran when the Islamic revolution ousted the Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi was an El Al flight. At this very tense point, not knowing quite what will happen and when, we could focus on a brighter reality than the previous 45 years of oppression in that country.

The outcome of all the confrontation can be a better future, for which we pray in earnest.

End to end Airbnb Management Service

We

Chief Executive Officer

An exceptional opportunity to join an already successful organisation, currently supporting 4,300 cancer patients and their loved ones.

Working closely with the Chairman, the CEO will ensure continuing high-quality care and drive our strategic development to meet the relentless demand.

An inspiring individual capable of translating vision into action. You should have substantial experience in a similar environment with proven leadership and team management ability together with a deep understanding of Jewish culture and values.

If you are ready for this exciting challenge, we encourage you to apply and bring your skills and passion to Chai, enabling us to remain ahead of the curve the fi eld of supportive cancer care.

Email apply@goldstoneassociates.com for a candidate information pack.

Chai Cancer Care is an equal opportunities employer.

The last flight out of Tehran during the Islamic Revolution of 1979 was an El Al aircraft

Progressive Judaism

LEAP OF FAITH

BY RABBI RICHARD JACOBI EAST LONDON & ESSEX LIBERAL SYNAGOGUE

Olympics are a very positive model for us all

Back in 2012, going to the Olympic Park as a volunteer chaplain in my Games Maker uniform was a joy. Everyone was chatty and smiley on the underground. It’s never been that harmonious since.

Now, in 2024, it is worth celebrating the Olympic spirt once more. There are 206 countries who have sent delegations to the Olympics and 184 nations will also compete at the Paralympics. At the time of writing, more than 70 delegations have won at least one medal.

Competitors from all parts of the world have been meeting each other in the Athletes’ Village

and elsewhere. One highlight was seeing medal-winning athletes from North and South Korea take selfies together. This is the Olympic ideal of excellence, respect and friendship.

Against that backdrop, Russia has been excluded – rightly in my opinion – and some countries will put their athletes under such pressure to win at all costs that the ideals are actually subverted.

Israeli athletes have been competing under the additional pressure of threats against them because of the ongoing war in Gaza, which makes their six medals (at the time of writing) even more remarkable.

So, are the Olympics a good thing from a Jewish perspective?

Let’s note that the origins of the modern Olympic movement were in the French educator and historian Baron Pierre de Coubertin’s

Suits from £79.50

Overcoats from £79.50 Trouser Bargains £25 Raincoats from £49.50

JACKETS £20

SHIRTS £15 EACH ANY 2 FOR £20

£85 ANY 2 FOR £150

JACKETS FROM £49.50

fascination with the ancient Greek Olympiad.

These ancient games were imported to Jerusalem in the second century BCE and were one aspect of the Hellenistic culture that was violently opposed by the Maccabees, partly because in those days the athletes taking part were naked. It is ironic that the Jewish international sports competition is called the Maccabiah Games!

However, we note that Maimonides wrote in his Mishneh Torah that maintaining physical health is part of walking in the ways of God. We also learn that there was a biblical marathon mentioned in 1 Samuel chapter 4, when “a Benjaminite ran from the battlefield and reached Shiloh the same day; his clothes were rent and there was earth on his head”. The distance seems to be slightly longer than the Olympic marathon.

£39.50 TRACKSUITS £25 SHORTS £15 A PAIR 2 FOR £25

Open everyday & Sundays til 5:00pm

A stimulating series where our progressive rabbis consider how Biblical figures might act when faced with 21st-century issues

So, at the personal level, sporting activity might be encouraged, to help us live healthier lives. This, coupled with the general Torah principle of loving the stranger, shows that participation in the Olympics, if you’re good enough, is a good thing.

At the macro-level of international relations, bringing together people from di erent backgrounds and parts of the world for peaceful competition is to be encouraged. It teaches each nation to value diversity in all its forms. It shows us all that excellence can be found in so many di erent nations.

On their own, the Olympics cannot facilitate peace on earth. However, they can model several very positive messages for us all and remind us that, as with almost every aspect of life, we can choose to do what is right and good instead of opting for that which is riot and bad.

10 Golders Green Road London NW11 8LL Opposite Cafe Nero

Israeli gymnast Dolgopyat with his silver medal

Ask our

Our trusty team of advisers answers your questions about everything from law and finance to dating and dentistry. This week: Sending dinner service to Israel, the importance of a business valuation and selling silver

STEPHEN

MORRIS REMOVALS MANAGING DIRECTOR

STEPHEN MORRIS SHIPPING LTD

Dear Stephen

Your company shipped my family and me to Israel when we made aliyah in 2019. Obviously, we no longer have our aliyah ‘rights’ but wonder if you could ship over an old English dinner service, perhaps by putting it in someone else’s container? I’m not trying to avoid Israeli import duty and VAT, I just need to get it over cheaply for sentimental reasons.

David

Dear David

Thank you for your email and for thinking of us! Unfortunately, placing anything in someone else’s container is illegal and, even if

ADAM SHELLEY

ACCOUNTANT

SOBELL RHODES LLP

Dear Adam

I would like to know my business’s value, to have an indication of the current position and future potential. Are you able to provide any guidance?

Jess

Dear Jess

Understanding your business’s value is a crucial indicator of its current health and future potential. Whether considering a

sale, seeking investment or planning strategic moves, a precise valuation is vital. Additionally, an accurate valuation helps to set realistic employee expectations regarding stock options and ownership stakes. For companies that o er shares to their employees, a current and accurate valuation ensures that employers and employees clearly understand what those shares are worth. Several methodologies can be used, each serving di erent purposes and business types. The three most common approaches are the assetbased, earning-value and market-value methods. While the asset-based, earning-value, and marketvalue approaches o er comprehensive frameworks

you get to keep the dinner service, you – and we – could be fined heavily by Customs.

However, there are other ways of doing this. First, there is our regular groupage service between the UK and Israel. There is a minimum fee for this service because certain charges, such as UK and Israeli customs clearances, remain the same for any size shipment. We start at 4cbm, which equates roughly to 10 washing machines. If you can’t justify the expenditure for what might be a much smaller shipment, then we can o er air freight.

Air freight costs have fallen sharply in the last couple of years and my company’s air freight division despatches and receives hundreds of shipments each week. The service is door-to-door and o ers full export packing. We have successfully packed and shipped many dinner services to Israel without damage.

So please, just call me and we will simplify the process for you.

for valuing businesses, another straightforward and commonly used method involves applying industry average multiples to current revenue or EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation). This method is particularly prevalent in industries where benchmark multiples are well-established, providing a quick and less subjective means of valuation.

Knowing your business’s worth is a powerful tool, giving you a clear understanding of valuation methods, key value drivers and common pitfalls. Keeping up to date with your company’s value can help you make timely decisions and guide your business towards longterm success

AS COMFORTING AS A BOWL OF CHICKEN SOUP

JONATHAN WILLIAMS

JEWELLER

JEWELLERY CAVE LTD

Dear Jonathan

I’ve been driving past your showroom for the last 10 years and I’m sure you can help me. I have so much jewellery that has been accumulated from my 50-year marriage and also from my late mother and father, and I really do not know what to do with it all!

Some I want to

remodel, some I want to sell and some I want to give to my children and grandchildren.

What do you suggest?

Gillian

Dear Gillian

I have people coming in to see me at least twice a week in the same situation. But have no fear. I can help.

First, we have our own in-house design department, and I can sit down with you or one of my team will, and create a whole new look for all your jewellery that you want to keep, and recreate it all into something that you would like to wear every day.

I can also use some of the items, you may wish to give to your children and grandchildren.

The balance of what you do not want to keep, as we are very active in the preloved jewellery, watches and silver market, I’m sure I would buy.

If you’d like to come in, phone first, make an appointment and I look forward to meeting you.

TREVOR GEE

Qualifications:

• Managing director, consultant specialists in affordable family health insurance

• Advising on maximising cover, lower premiums, pre-existing conditions

• Excellent knowledge of health insurers, cover levels and hospital lists

• LLB solicitors finals

• Member of Chartered Insurance Institute

PATIENT HEALTH

020 3146 3444/5/6

www.patienthealth.co.uk trevor.gee@patienthealth.co.uk

HUMAN RESOURCES / EMPLOYMENT LAW

DONNA OBSTFELD

Qualifications:

• FCIPD Chartered HR Professional

• 25 years in HR and business management.

• Mediator, business coach, trainer, author and speaker

• Supporting businesses and charities with the hiring, managing, inspiring and firing of their staff

DOHR LTD

020 8088 8958

www.dohr.co.uk

donna@dohr.co.uk

ACCOUNTANT

ADAM SHELLEY

Qualifications:

• FCCA chartered certified accountant

• Accounting, taxation and business advisory services

• Entrepreneurial business specialist including start-up businesses

• Specialises in social media influencers and sport sector including tax planning and financial management

• Maurice Wohl Charitable Foundation Volunteer of the Year JVN award

SOBELL RHODES LLP 020 8429 8800 www.sobellrhodes.co.uk a.shelley@sobellrhodes.co.uk

CHARITY EXECUTIVE

LISA WIMBORNE

Qualifications:

Able to draw on the charity’s 50 years of experience in enabling people with physical disabilities or impaired vision to live independently, including:

• The provision of specialist accommodation with 24/7 on-site support

• Knowledge of the innovations that empower people and the benefits available

• Understanding of the impact of a disability diagnosis

JEWISH BLIND & DISABLED 020 8371 6611

www.jbd.org

Lisa@jbd.org

Experts

ISRAEL PROPERTY & MORTGAGE BROKER

ILAN RUBINSTEIN

Qualifications:

• UK born, licenced Israel estate agent in Israel since 2001

• Ilan assists in buying, financing & re-sale of new & existing property in Israel.

• Helps level the playing field opposite vendors, developers & even the bank

• Attentive to your needs, saving you time, hassle & money

I.L.A.N. ESTATES & INVESTMENTS “Bringing Jews Home” UK: 0203-807-0878 ISRAEL: +972-504-910-604 www.ilanrealestate.com nadlan@hotmail.com

JEWELLER

JONATHAN WILLIAMS

Qualifications:

• Jewellery manufacturer since 1980s

• Expert in the manufacture and supply of diamond jewellery, wedding rings and general jewellery

FINANCIAL SERVICES (FCA) COMPLIANCE

JACOB BERNSTEIN

Qualifications:

• A member of the APCC, specialising in financial services compliance for:

• Mortgage, protection and general insurance intermediaries;

• Lenders, credit brokers, debt counsellors and debt managers;

• Alternative Investment Fund managers;

• E-Money, payment services, PISP, AISP and grant-making charities.

RICHDALE CONSULTANTS LTD 020 7781 8019

www.richdale.co.uk jacob@richdale.co.uk

GOAL ATTAINMENT SPECIALIST

DR BEN LEVY

Qualifications:

• Doctor of psychology with 15 years’ experience in education and corporate sectors

• Uses robust, evidence-based methods to help you achieve your goals, whatever they may be

JEWELLERY CAVE LTD 020 8446 8538 www.jewellerycave.co.uk jonathan@jewellerycave.co.uk

• Specialist in supply of diamonds to the public at trade prices

DIRECTOR OF LEGACIES

CAROLYN ADDLEMAN

Qualifications:

• Lawyer with over 20 years’ experience in will drafting and trust and estate administration. Last 14 years at KKL Executor and Trustee Company

• In close contact with clients to ensure all legal and pastoral needs are cared for

• Member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners

KKL EXECUTOR AND TRUSTEE COMPANY 020 8732 6101 www.kkl.org.uk enquiries@kkl.org.uk

REMOVALS MANAGING DIRECTOR

STEPHEN MORRIS

Qualifications:

• Managing director of Stephen Morris Shipping Ltd

• 45 years’ experience in shipping household and personal effects

• Chosen mover for four royal families and three UK prime ministers

• Offering proven quality specialist advice for moving anyone across the world or round the corner

STEPHEN MORRIS SHIPPING LTD 020 8832 2222 www.shipsms.co.uk stephen@shipsms.co.uk

• Works with clients individually to maximise success

MAKE IT HAPPEN 07779 619 597 www.makeit-happen.co.uk ben@makeit-happen.co.uk

SUE CIPIN OBE

Qualifications:

• 24 years+ hands-on experience, leading JDA in significant growth and development.

• Understanding of the impact of deafness on people, including children, at all stages

• Extensive services for people affected by hearing loss/tinnitus

• Technology room with expert advice on and facilities to try out the latest equipment.

• Hearing aid advice, support and maintenance

JEWISH DEAF ASSOCIATION 020 8446 0502 www.jdeaf.org.uk mail@jdeaf.org.uk

Need Cash Fast?

GOLD PRICES AT RECORD HIGH!!!

Sell your gold and coins today! Can’t choose the diamond ring you are looking for? We wish to purchase any Diamond and Gold Jewellery

Receive the

prices for your unwanted gold today! Call Jonathan 020 8446 8538

9 ct per gram - £21.96

14 ct per gram - £34.25

18 ct per gram - £43.91

21 ct per gram - £51.23

22 ct per gram - £53.63

24 ct per gram - £58.54

Platinum 950 per gram - £20.06

Silver 925 per gram - £0.49

Half Sovereigns - £214.53

Full Sovereigns - £429.06

Krugerrands - £1,820.94

We also purchase sterling silver candlesticks and any other sterling tableware www.howcashforgold.co.uk

Come and see us in our North London showroom for the best engagement ring selection.

We can create the design of your dreams ...and at a wholesale price!

We can supply any certificated GIA or HRD diamond of your choice.

@jewellerycave

and Confidential

Service Price Offered Instantly Same Day Payment

A free valuation from our in house gemmologist and gold experts on anything you may wish to sell. If you are thinking of selling, we purchase all diamonds in any shape, size, clarity or colour WE PAY MORE than all our competitors. Try us, and you will not be disappointed!

www.jewellerycave.co.uk

We purchase a wide range of Antiques, including Furniture through the ages, from Georgian, Regency and Victorian, to the more rare 20th century modern pieces. We also specialise in diamond jewellery, gold, silver, and paintings of any period, with an emphasis primarily on quality.

If you would like advice or to sell direct, do get in touch. Selling direct eliminates the high commissions involved with auction houses. In fact, we encourage sellers to obtain an auction estimate before contacting us, to be certain of receiving the best possible price.

Payment is immediate, by cash or Bank Transfer and we collect free of charge. We are here to help.

Please call Sue for a free valuation on: Freephone 0800 840 2035. Mob: 07956 268 290. email: antiquesbuyers8@gmail.com. Visit our website for more details: www.antiquesbuyers.co.uk

Antique – Reproduction – Retro Furniture (any condition)

Epstein, Archie Shine, Hille, G Plan, etc.

Dining Suites, Lounges Suites, Bookcases, Desks, Cabinets, Mirrors, Lights, etc. House clearances

Single items to complete homes

MARYLEBONE ANTIQUES - 8 CHURCH STREET NW8 8ED 07866 614 744 (ANYTIME) 0207 723 7415 (SHOP)

- e-mail -

@maryleboneantiques.co.uk

HOUSE CLEARANCE

YOU CONTACT US BEFORE SELLING

Dave & Eve House Clearance

Friendly Family Company established for 30 years

We clear houses, flats, sheds, garages etc. No job too big or too small! Rubbish cleared as part of a

Furs, Jewellery, Old Costume Jewellery, Watches, Silver, Designer Bags, anything vintage. 01277 352560

Confidential Bereavement Counselling for adults and children individually. Support Groups available. We offer in person, online and telephone counselling. Contact Jewish Bereavement Counselling Service in confidence. 0208 951 3881 enquiries@jbcs.org.uk | www.jbcs.org.uk CHARITY & WELFARE

ARE YOU BEREAVED?

Sheltered Accommodation

We have an open waiting list in our friendly and comfortable warden assisted sheltered housing schemes in Ealing, East Finchley and Hendon. We provide 24-hour warden support, seven days a

and

Former “Magic Circle” solicitor offers help with:

• CVs and personal statements

• interviews and assessment days

• coping with stress and workload

• promotion and new opportunities

For more information contact Tom lawmentor@btinternet.com / 07590 057097

and

LAW MENTOR

Former “Magic Circle” solicitor offers help with:

• CVs and personal statements

• interviews and assessment days

• coping with stress and workload

• promotion and new opportunities

For more information contact Tom lawmentor@btinternet.com / 07590 057097

THE JEWISH NEWS CROSSWORD

11 Female rabbit (3)

12 Morally proper (7)

SUDOKU

9 Coastal region of France (7)

SUDOKU

Fill the grid with the numbers 1 to 9 so that each row, column and 3x3 block contains the numbers 1 to 9.

Fill the grid with the numbers 1 to 9 so that each row column and 3x3 block contains the numbers 1 to 9.

Persevere doggedly (4,2,2)

13 Blue Shoes, Presley song (5)

14 Culinary pulveriser (6)

16 Plus (2,4)

19 Farmland units (5)

21 Make more secure (7)

23 Try to win the affection of (3)

24 Sudden thrust (5)

25 Take away (7)

26 Tending flocks (11)

2 Dog’s restraining chain (5)

3 Appendix to a will (7)

4 Wax light with a wick (6)

Abounding (with) (4)

Smartphone photo of the taker (6)

Replaced the receiver (4,2)

Agreement, treaty (4)

University teacher (8)

Give off (energy or light) (7) 23 Theatre art (5) 24 Man-made fabric (5) 25 Cavities in the head (7)

Upbraids (7)

5 ___ basket, wickerwork carrycot (5)

6 Bishop’s area (7)

7 Signal to take action (4-2,4)

Roughage (5) 3 Based on a specific topic (8) 4 Famous Victorian naturalist (6) 5 Indonesian island (4)

6 Turning sharply (7)

7 Cover with cloth (5)

10 Of clothes, reaching the middle of the leg (4-6)

15 Squash (7)

17 With vision (7)

18 Heavy uninteresting food (6)

12 Gatecrashed (6,2)

14 In an intelligible way (7) 16 Magnificent doorways (7) 17 Precious stones (6)

18 Less tainted (5)

20 Lottery (5)

22 Practise for a feat of endurance (5)

20 Bellows (5) 21 Upland lake (4)

CODEWORD

SUGURU

SUGURU

Each cell in an outlined block must contain a digit: a two-cell block contains the digits 1 and 2, a three-cell block contains the digits 1, 2 and 3; and so on. The same digit must not appear in neighbouring cells, not even diagonally.

Each cell in an outlined block must contain a digit: a two-cell block contains the digits 1 and 2 a three-cell block contains the digits 1 2 and 3; and so on. The same digit must not appear in neighbouring cells not even diagonally.

with brass bands can all be found in the forwards or backwards, in a horizontal, direction, but always in a straight, unbroken line.

The listed words to do with chess can all be found in the grid. Words may run either forwards or backwards in a horizontal, vertical or diagonal direction but always in a straight unbroken line.

In this finished crossword, every letter of the alphabet appears as a code number. All you have to do is crack the code and fill in the grid. Replacing the decoded numbers with their letters in the grid will help you to guess the identity of other letters.

In this finished crossword every letter of the alphabet appears as a code number. All you have to do is crack the code and fill in the grid. Replacing the decoded numbers with their letters in the grid will help you to guess the identity of other letters.

5

4

Sudoku

Suguru

Wordsearch

Codeword

Sudoku Suguru

Wordsearch

Codeword

your home

shopping center, and much more. Cosmopolitan Tel Aviv is also only minutes away, making this a rare chance to capture privacy and tranquility alongside easy access to all of Israel.

Asking Price: NIS 15.5 million • Flexible Move-In Date

https://www.savyonluxuryhomes.co.il/en/home/

Idyllic Villa with Huge Gardens • 500 sqm built-up area • 3,000 sqm property • 7 beds / 5 baths.

Elegant style exudes from every aspect of this opulent villa, surrounded by sprawling lawns, with Savyon’s very finest kindergartens, school, synagogue, shopping center, and more right on your doorstep. This breathtaking villa would be in high demand simply for its wonderful placement, but of course it is much more than a location, with gorgeous gardens, remarkably spacious rooms, and a unique design concept that brings nature into every part of the home.

Asking Price: NIS 25 million • Flexible Move-In Date

https://www.savyonluxuryhomes.co.il/en/home/

Palatial Hilltop Villa • 800 sqm built-up area • 2,500 sqm property • 11 beds / 7 baths.

“Prime location” is redefined with this exceptionally large villa, which occupies a privileged hilltop position within Savyon. The spacious villa has a refined, classic design with elegant pillars, manicured lawns, and traditional flagstone walkways that hearken back to stately European mansions. Its unique topography ensures that residents enjoy breathtaking uninterrupted views of the beautiful countryside without compromising on privacy or a serene atmosphere.

Asking Price: NIS 26 million • Flexible Move-In Date

https://www.savyonluxuryhomes.co.il/en/home/

Iconic Hollywood-Style Villa • 600

Discover classic Hollywood glamour in central Israel. Iconic, eye-catching architectural design foregrounds natural light in this luxurious glass-fronted, heart-shaped villa, and wraps everything in the most prestigious Italian marble. Of course, this portal to Hollywood style is located in a coveted location within upscale Savyon, offering privacy as well as proximity to the local school, synagogue, cultural center, and more.

Asking Price: NIS 18.5 million • Flexible Move-In Date

https://www.savyonluxuryhomes.co.il/en/home/ For more information, please contact us via phone/email

Majestic Villa with Timeless Style

Only a select few residences exude timeless sophistication that truly takes your breath away. Embraced by beautiful landscaped grounds, including the magnificent swimming pool, this palatial three-level villa is ideally located on a quiet side street, ensuring absolute privacy while still being within easy walking distance of everything a family needs: superb school, synagogue, cultural center, and a whole host of stores, restaurants, and much more.

Asking Price: NIS 36 million • Flexible Move-In Date

https://www.savyonluxuryhomes.co.il/en/home/

https://www.savyonluxuryhomes.co.il/en/home/