The Metropolitan Police has issued a double apology after an officer was captured on video describing a man as “openly Jewish” and suggesting his presence near a pro-Palestinian march in London was provocative. The incident, which involved Gideon Falter, the chief executive of the Campaign Against Antisemitism, sparked significant backlash and prompted a statement of regret from Scotland Yard.
The video, which has been widely circulated, shows a police officer telling Falter, who was wearing a kippah skull cap, “You are quite openly Jewish, this is a pro-Palestinian march, I’m not accusing you of anything, but I’m worried about the reaction to your presence.” Another officer in the clip threatened Falter with arrest, claiming his presence was “antagonising”.
Assistant Commissioner Matt Twist initially apologised for the officer’s comment, stating it was “hugely regrettable” and acknowledging it would “further dent the confidence of many Jewish Londoners”. However, the apology was criticised for seeming to blame Falter for being provocative by his mere presence. The statement implied that those “opposed to the protest” by being near it could be seen as inciting a reaction.
Falter vehemently rejected this narrative, arguing that it suggested parts of London were no-go zones for Jews. This response, along with wider criticism, prompted the Met Police to retract their first statement and issue a further apology. “The use of the term ‘openly Jewish’ by one of our officers is hugely regrettable,” the force said. “We know it will have caused offence to many. We reiterate our apology.”
The second apology stressed that being Jewish is not a provocation and that all Londoners, including Jewish residents, must be able to feel safe in the city. The police emphasised their commitment to protecting all communities and acknowledged the need for clearer public communication.
British interior minister James Cleverly has responded to the incident by writing to the Metropolitan Police, expressing concern and noting that being Jewish, or of any other race or religion, should never be perceived as provocative. A Home Office spokesperson reiterated that individuals of any religion should feel safe and free to go about their lives.
This event occurs against a backdrop of increased tension and debate over the safety of Jewish Londoners. Tens of thousands of pro-Palestinian protesters had gathered in London to call for a ceasefire and urge the government to stop all arms sales to Israel, amidst which the interaction between Falter and the officers took place.
The Metropolitan Police’s handling of the situation continues to be scrutinised, as they navigate the complex responsibilities of policing public protests and ensuring the safety and freedoms of all individuals, regardless of their identity or religious affiliation.
Relevant articles:
– Met Police apologises twice after using phrase ‘openly Jewish’ as campaigner accuses force of ‘victim-blaming’ | UK News
– UK minister writes to London police over ‘openly Jewish’ comment, The Jerusalem Post, Sat, 20 Apr 2024 10:00:52 GMT
– Met apologises for ‘openly Jewish’ comment – then is forced to apologise again for ‘victim blaming’ statement, The Independent, Fri, 19 Apr 2024 21:19:45 GMT
– London cops apologize for implying Jewish man’s kippa ‘provoked’ anti-Israel crowd, The Times of Israel, Thu, 18 Apr 2024 07:00:00 GMT