In early November, Yotam Confino (35), a Danish-Israeli journalist, was invited to lecture at the Tivoli Hotel in Denmark about propaganda and misinformation in the Gaza war. Confino, who reports from Israel for leading media outlets in Denmark, the US, and Britain, arrived early – he knew pro-Palestinian activists were preparing a "reception" for him. As someone who is half Israeli, he has always been under a magnifying glass, but since October 7, he has been accompanied by police to every public event.

Another prominent example is Erin Molan (42), an Australian journalist who paid a heavy price for supporting Israel. "My heart broke when I saw the videos from the Gaza border communities," she said. "The shock turned to shame when I saw Australians celebrating the massacre in front of the Sydney Opera House, a day or two later. I have a television show, and even though I'm not Jewish or Israeli, I immediately stood with Israel because I knew it was the right side. From that moment on, my life changed."

Nicole Lampert is a Jewish-British culture journalist who wrote for years for the kingdom's leading newspapers. Over the years, she began writing about antisemitism as well, especially during Jeremy Corbyn's leadership of the Labour Party, but her main occupation remained cultural – at least until October 7.

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Thames Valley Police arrested four people on "suspicion of malicious communications" following the projection of Trump-Epstein images onto the royal residence, while two additional men faced charges for violating airspace restrictions, according to Sky News.

The UK government announced a "tech prosperity deal" worth £31 billion in American technology investments, coinciding with Trump's arrival, including Microsoft's £22 billion commitment to build Britain's largest AI supercomputer, according to Sky News.

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The exhibition, planned to open on November 25 and run until March 15, 2026, was intended to tell the story of Bournemouth's Jewish community as part of a project funded by Britain's National Heritage Fund. The museum has now announced that the exhibition will be rescheduled for a future date yet to be determined.

Wave of antisemitism in the area

The decision comes after a series of severe antisemitic incidents in the area. Last month, a Jewish man was shot with an air rifle in Bournemouth's East Cliff neighborhood, and several cases of swastika graffiti were recorded, including one painted on a local rabbi's home.

A museum spokesperson explained: "We carefully assess potential risks when planning any exhibition. We recognize this is a sensitive period, and due to requirements related to this event, the museum has decided to postpone the exhibition and is working with organizers to reschedule it."

Harsh criticism of the decision

The Campaign Against Antisemitism organization in Britain harshly criticized the museum's decision, calling it "completely shameful." The organization accused the institution of choosing "to extinguish Jewish culture in the face of threats from an antisemitic mob."

"At a time when British Jews are facing unprecedented levels of antisemitism and families are hiding their identity for fear of abuse or even violence, British institutions should be standing firm in support of Jewish life, not silencing it," the organization's statement read.

Jewish heritage is being cancelled in Britain.

We understand that the Russell-Cotes Museum in Bournemouth has scrapped an exhibition on the illustrious history of the city's Jewish community over fears of "protest" and "security risks".

This is utterly shameful.

At a time… pic.twitter.com/mUhvcpbKcF

— Campaign Against Antisemitism (@antisemitism) September 3, 2025

Sharp rise in antisemitism in Britain

Britain has been experiencing an unprecedented wave of antisemitism since October 7. According to Community Security Trust (CST) data, 1,521 antisemitic incidents were recorded in the first half of 2025 – the second-highest number since the organization began documenting data.

In total, the organization documented 3,528 antisemitic incidents in 2024, making it the second-worst year on record, with an 18% decrease from the 2023 peak of 4,296 incidents.

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The statement comes after French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France would support the establishment of a Palestinian state in September, with the impact of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza emerging as the significant factor behind Starmer's decision. Two senior government officials, speaking anonymously about sensitive internal discussions, told The New York Times that momentum for recognition has been building due to the escalating humanitarian crisis and reports of starvation deaths in Gaza following aid restrictions that were imposed by Israeli authorities. The officials revealed that Starmer's previous resistance to what he considered largely performative gestures has weakened under unprecedented political pressure.

Over 250 parliamentarians from nine parties, including Labour members, signed a letter urging Starmer and Foreign Secretary David Lammy to recognize Palestine at this week's United Nations conference on the two-state solution. The legislative correspondence recognized that "the UK does not possess the authority to establish a free and independent Palestine," yet contended that acknowledgment would hold substantial influence considering Britain's historical involvement in Israel's founding. Recognition advocates have suggested such measures would represent governmental acceptance of Gaza's catastrophe and show Britain refuses to passively witness the developing emergency.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned Macron's move, declaring that a Palestinian state could become "a launchpad to annihilate Israel." The Israeli leader's opposition underscores the diplomatic risks Starmer faces as he weighs Britain's position on Palestinian statehood recognition.

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The party's deputy chairman, Member of Parliament Richard Tice, is a staunch Israel supporter who defends its actions in British media. Recently, he noted that "the scariest thing in the British House of Commons is speaking up for Israel." In an interview with Israel Hayom, he explains how, in the short time since Labour's rise to power, public opinion is shifting rightward and supporting a party the public previously shied away from.

What do you think about the current government's treatment of Israel?

"The government is wrong regarding Israel. On the one hand, Labour says Israel has the right to defend itself, but on the other hand, many MPs are anti-Israel and sometimes even antisemitic. They talk about alleged 'genocide' by Israel, but Israel is fighting Hamas, which wants to eliminate it. If anyone has an ambition for genocide, it's Hamas. Sadly, there's a war, but the goal is to remove Hamas from power and return the hostages. Hamas can stop the war immediately if conditions are met. It bothers me that the UN and human rights organizations like UNRWA adopt Hamas' rhetoric and fake news. Britain should stop funding UNRWA, which shows sympathy for Hamas. Labour conducts misguided policy toward Israel because of pressure from party MPs, and that's unfortunate."

What about the threat of a weapons embargo and sanctions on Israeli ministers Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich?

"Sanctions on weapons transfers to Israel are ridiculous, and they're a gift to Hamas. It's a serious mistake. The best way for a ceasefire is to pressure the UN and Hamas to force them to release the hostages. A government under our leadership would not only continue transferring weapons to Israel in full, but it would also focus on defense-related trade agreements so we can provide meaningful protection to British citizens. Regarding sanctions on Israeli ministers – it's a bad idea."

What do you think about the threat by some European Union countries to suspend the trade agreement between Israel and the EU?

"The European Union is going the wrong way – pressure should be on the UN and Hamas. Take Donald Trump's proposal that the US take ownership of the Gaza Strip and turn it into a luxurious Riviera. Immediately, everyone opposed it, but where are the alternative ideas? How do they want to solve the Gaza problem? If you don't like the plan, propose an alternative solution that excludes Hamas from the picture. The European Union should stand with Israel and help find a real solution, not act against it."

Britain showed signs it wants to recognize a Palestinian state; what do you think about the issue?

"You can't recognize a state managed by a terror organization. Our focus should be on removing Hamas from power in Gaza because as long as Hamas is in power, a two-state solution for two peoples has no chance."

What about Israel's preemptive strike on Iran?

"Britain should thank Israel and the US and support any additional action needed to ensure Iran never develops nuclear weapons capability."

Less than a year after Labour rose to power in a historic victory and the Conservative party collapsed, polls show the British public is already disappointed. Voters are seeking an alternative that will address economic problems, illegal immigration, and integration difficulties of immigrants.

How do you explain your significant jump in polls?

"We're aware of British citizens' concerns about the arrival of many immigrants with low education affecting housing, education, and schooling costs. Politicians lie that these are people immigrating legally, but many arrive illegally and receive apartments, money, and means of living at taxpayers' expense, with higher crime rates. This creates anger. There's also anger about the 'NET ZERO' plan (zero greenhouse gas emissions) designed to reduce air pollution, but it creates heavy costs and increases the cost of living. Both Conservatives and Labour brought Britain to a bad state and caused poverty and poor quality of life. We offer solutions that will improve people's lives."

While most of Europe moves rightward, last year's elections in Britain moved leftward. Now, things seem to be changing quickly and dramatically. What explains the rightward shift among Britons?

"The Conservatives collapsed because they lied, didn't address poverty, and flooded Britain with uneducated immigrants. We have the highest tax in 17 years, large debt, and low growth – we're heading toward bankruptcy. We come from a business background and need to cut welfare. Our values are family, work, and country. Those who are able to work will go to work, and those who are unable to work will not receive generous welfare benefits. There are almost 6 million people without work and a government saying we need more immigrants. Right and left is an old concept – the government's job is to give people security. If not, they'll throw you out."

Is there a connection between rising antisemitism and greater immigration of people from the Middle East, North Africa, and Muslims in general?

"There's a major rise in antisemitism in Britain after October 7, and most people born in Britain fear it, including me too. We need to act against antisemitism in the sharpest way. The answer to your question is yes. Britain was founded as a country with Christian, Western values with tolerance toward minorities, and part of our worldview is that antisemitism is against the law, and we must act against it in the clearest way. Those who don't understand our tradition, don't respect our values, and act against our worldviews their place isn't with us. You can keep your tradition and religion, but you're supposed to speak our language, respect our laws and values, work, take part in building the country, respect others, and keep the law."

What's your future? Will you be a leading party or create political paralysis?

"We'll win the next elections and form a government to save Britain from business and values failure. We need to return people to being proud Britons who believe in the country's values. We need to understand that money doesn't grow on trees, and you need to work to exist. Celebrate the possibility that you can do it in our country. Those who live here should be proud to be British and appreciate the fact they live in a free and advanced country that can provide citizens security and opportunities to develop and grow in all areas of life."

Will Reform UK be a good friend of Israel in the future and fight antisemitism?

"I work every week to achieve these goals – better connection to Israel and fighting antisemitism. I have Israeli friends and hope to visit Israel soon. We aim to be good friends with all countries that prioritize the well-being of their citizens and strive to make the world a better place. In this, Israel is different from its enemies. We see what Hamas does to Palestinians and what it invests its money in, while Israel protects its citizens and contributes to developments that benefit people worldwide."

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Saudi Arabia possesses a well-equipped air force, based primarily on American-made systems and aircraft. In 2017, during President Donald Trump's first term, an extensive arms deal was signed with Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman, and this deal was further expanded during his recent visit to the region.

Saudi Arabia hasn't officially confirmed involvement in the interceptions and even condemned Israel for launching the offensive against Iran. Israel, the United States and European countries demonstrated close operational cooperation, through which Iran's image as a regional threat was damaged.

The political significance is broad – the very fact that a leading Sunni state, perhaps the most central one, is acting in ways that lead to thwarting Iranian threats even without public declaration indicates a deep regional shift. However, Saudi Arabia emphasized it won't allow use of its airspace for striking targets in Iran.

12-day international coalition

During the 12 days of fighting against Iran, several countries acted to defend the region's skies, including Jordan, which operated mainly through its air force in its airspace; Britain and France, which also operated in the aerial arena; and the United States military, which alongside the IDF was the most active – through aircraft, ships, Patriot and THAAD air defense systems and more.

Iran launched over a thousand drones toward Israel. Most were intercepted far from the border, and a minority were shot down by the Israeli Air Force over Israeli skies. This joint operation wouldn't have been possible without years of exercises and simulations with international partners – including Greece, Italy, France and Britain.

At the center of activity stood US Central Command – CENTCOM – commanded by General Mike Kurilla, who's credited with a significant contribution to the cooperation mechanism that operated here. Since the IDF joined CENTCOM, a well-connected military system has been built and developed, including Israel and European countries like Britain, France, Greece, Italy and Cyprus.

Another significant achievement of this framework is establishing a joint American command and control center, connected in real-time to all involved militaries. Kurilla himself sat in this center during many stages of the fighting, leading coordination between intelligence, warning, activation and interception elements.

Years of preparation

In the IDF, the International Planning Division in the Planning Directorate is responsible for managing relations with CENTCOM and other partner countries. International Planning representatives have a role in every command and corps – ensuring continuous contact with counterparts in foreign militaries. The frequency of dialogue with American commanders has risen dramatically in recent years – from ceremonial conversations every six months to daily dialogue, joint exercises, coordinated flights, and even intelligence cooperation.

The chiefs of staff – the recently retired Chief Herzi Halevi and current Chief Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir – have also maintained close relations with senior commanders in the US military. The US serves not only as a bridge between Israel and regional countries but also as a coordinating factor with Arab countries with which there are no direct relations.

This cooperation was tested not only now but also in previous waves of Iranian attacks on Israel in April and October 2024. Then too, the United States and European countries operated in various arenas – some through interception means, others through location and information sharing. Now, during the 12-day campaign, the operation was much broader in scope.

Jordan, unlike others, publicly acknowledged interception operations and even emphasized that drones fell in its territory causing damage – which required a response. France also explained its participation as defending its interests in Jordan, while avoiding public mention of Israel.

The results that received impressive expression in the current war could form a basis for much larger political moves – perhaps even for the comprehensive regional move that President Trump is planning as part of his "mega-deal" for the Middle East.

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Britain – joined by Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and other countries – will enact asset freezes and travel restrictions on Minister of National Security Itamar Ben Gvir and Minister of Finance Bezalel Smotrich on Tuesday.

The sanctions ban Smotrich and Ben-Gvir from entering the country or dealing with British financial institutions, similar to what senior Russians have faced due to the war in Ukraine.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar said that "we were informed about UK decision to include two of our ministers on the British sanctions list. It is outrageous that elected representatives and members of the government are subjected to this kind of measures." He added that after his discussion with Prime Minister Netanyahu, it was decided that "we will hold a special government meeting early next week to decide on our response to this unacceptable decision."

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Isabel Oakeshott, a journalist for the British newspaper The Telegraph, was lost in daydreams while riding a scooter on the Tel Aviv promenade. It's unclear whether the handsome young people playing volleyball on the beach or the spectacular sunset distracted her attention, but she suddenly found herself on the sidewalk with a severe blow to her chin and head.

After kind passersby helped her up, the journalist returned to her hotel room, where concerns arose that she might be suffering from a concussion. She independently made her way to Ichilov Hospital in Tel Aviv and received treatment with such speed and efficiency that it surprised her enough to inspire a column about her experience.

Under the headline "What my stupid accident in Tel Aviv reveals about truly world class healthcare," Oakeshott describes her experience in the Sylvan Adams Emergency Department at Ichilov Hospital. "There were no 12-hour queues like those in Britain's National Health Service. Within half an hour, I was standing before a nice doctor who spoke excellent English, stitched my chin, and took blood tests – the prognosis was that I was perfectly fine," Oakeshott wrote.

"I wanted to come to Israel to learn about war... and I did all that, but the accident also drew my attention to the enormous differences between Israel's healthcare system and Britain's," Oakeshott added. She continued by explaining the history and structure of medical services in Israel, outlining the health maintenance organizations and the public and government hospitals.

"The Sylvan Adams Emergency Department uses all kinds of time-saving and life-saving devices and artificial intelligence wizardry to treat patients well and quickly. Robots move around providing directions, and in their free time, staff members amuse themselves by testing the artificial intelligence system to see if it understands slang or distinguishes between female and male voices," she noted in her piece.

It appears the journalist encountered one of the best aspects of public medicine in Israel, and readers living in Israel would know there are places where service falls far short of the standard she described. Nevertheless, it's important occasionally to consider the perspective of foreigners from other Western countries and recognize that Israelis also have much to be thankful for in their healthcare system.

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A front-page exposé in the British Daily Mail reveals today (Sunday) the alarming reality facing Britain's asylum system and the troubling ease with which a member of a terrorist organization can find himself enjoying coffee in a bustling city center mere days after being intercepted attempting to enter the country illegally.

A Gazan asylum seeker known as "Abu Wadei" became a social media sensation after documenting his migration journey from the war-torn Gaza Strip to Britain, posting videos from various points along his route. The man was filmed smoking hookah in Brussels, wandering through a French train station, and meeting with associates at other unidentified European locations.

Earlier today, this Palestinian man, who goes by Abu Wadei, posted a video on TikTok showing the final steps of his journey from Gaza to Britain, in a dinghy. We have been urgently looking into who he is.

Source: https://t.co/hBZ7Xd0Im4 pic.twitter.com/GTrjeZUvFq

— Campaign Against Antisemitism (@antisemitism) March 7, 2025

Abu Wadei's social media peaked last week when he recorded British Coast Guard personnel intercepting the small boat in which he was attempting to illegally enter British territory to claim asylum seeker and refugee status. Yet those who investigated the Palestinian migrant's social media accounts discovered a disturbing reality. Dozens of photos and videos show him participating in activities linked to the Hamas terrorist organization. One image captures him aiming a Kalashnikov rifle, while another shows him carrying a mortar bomb alongside a Hamas sign.

The British newspaper assessed that the man is a Khan Younis resident in his 30s. Though he escaped from Gaza before the Oct. 7 events, he was an active member of the terrorist organization's "Arson Unit" and regularly confronted IDF forces near the Gaza fence.

The terrorist's own statements remove any ambiguity about his ideology. "Allah, it is upon you to kill all the Jews, punish them. Kill them one by one and destroy them completely," he declared in a repulsive video uploaded to Facebook.

The discovery triggered significant backlash within the British political establishment. Former Immigration Minister and Conservative Member of Parliament Robert Jenrick wrote: "Abu Wadee is clearly a threat to the British people. The police and security services are stretched as it is without dangerous men like this who appear to hold extremist sympathies to deal with. He needs to be deported immediately."

British Immigration Police declined to comment specifically on the case, but videos uploaded by the man suggest he has not been detained and was essentially released after being apprehended by Coast Guard personnel. The Abu Wadei case will likely intensify pressure on Prime Minister Keir Starmer, particularly after approximately 1,600 illegal migrants entered Britain via the same route in just the past week.

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A Muslim tourist from Britain who visited Israel documented his trip in a series of videos where he explicitly called for the state's destruction, labeled IDF soldiers as "baby killers" and displayed overt hostility toward Israel. The incident occurred just one month after a terrorist, who had entered the country under the guise of being a tourist, perpetrated a stabbing attack in Tel Aviv.

Video: Muslim British tourist documentes his trip in a series of videos where he explicitly called for the state's destruction. Credit: TikTok/isheverything

In the videos he posted, the tourist detailed the precautionary measures he took to conceal his Muslim identity when entering Israel. After landing, he ridiculed the Israeli presence at Ben Gurion International Airport and described the state's flags as "filthy." His rhetoric intensified during a visit to the Temple Mount, where he explicitly called for Israel's destruction, asserting this was the sole solution to ensure freedom of worship at the al-Aqsa mosque.

The emergence of these videos comes approximately one month after the Tel Aviv attack, perpetrated by a terrorist who gained entry to Israel as a tourist, despite raising suspicions during border checks. In response to these recent events, Israel's National Security Minister has instructed the Shin Bet to review procedures and draw conclusions.

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