British Jewish leaders hit out at Israel invite for ‘thug’ Tommy Robinson

WorldPolitics
5 Oct 2025 • 6:44 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • An Israeli minister, Amichai Chikli, has invited far-right activist Tommy Robinson to visit Israel, praising him as a "courageous leader" against radical Islam.
  • Leading British Jewish organisations, including the Board of Deputies and the Jewish Leadership Council, strongly condemned the invitation, labelling Robinson a "thug" who "represents the very worst of Britain".
  • They criticised Minister Chikli for ignoring the views of the vast majority of British Jews and undermining efforts to combat extremism and foster community cohesion.
  • Former Tory cabinet minister Baroness Sayeeda Warsi and think tank director Sunder Katwala also denounced the invitation, citing Robinson's history of convictions and divisive rhetoric.
  • Robinson confirmed he would accept the invitation, planning to visit Jerusalem, the West Bank, and other sites, including Gaza, after his upcoming trial.

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