JLC Chair Writes to the Prime Minister to Oppose Palestine Recognition Plan

On Wednesday 30th July, Keith Black, Chair of the Jewish Leadership Council wrote to the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer MP, to oppose the government’s plan to recognise a Palestinian state before the UN General Assembly in September.

In his letter, Chair of the JLC, Keith Black said:

“While this route fails to help the people of the region, it comes in the context of this war’s devastating impact on community relations here in the UK with sustained high levels of antisemitism.

I understand that there is increased pressure from those who wish the government to take ever more radical positions and action against Israel. For the extremists who are causing this further division within our society, recognition of a Palestinian state will never be enough. While we gathered to hold vigils for the victims of October 7th before Israel had even responded, they were out celebrating the victory of the ‘resistance’. They chant ‘from the river to the sea’ and call to ‘globalise the Intifada’. They will not be placated.

The community deeply appreciates the government’s considerable support for the security of the Jewish community in this country. However, support for security must be accompanied with a meaningful willingness to understand and address why such measures are needed in modern Britain.

If you proceed on this path, your government’s actions will give succour to violent extremism and betray a loyal ally. It is my view that it is a grave error. Prime minister, I urge you, do not look evil in the face and build it a bridge to respectability.”