UK government boosts funding to protect Jewish communities

The UK government has announced an additional £25 million in funding to strengthen police patrols and protective security measures aimed at safeguarding Jewish communities, following a terror attack in Golders Green, as per British media.

The latest allocation brings total funding for this purpose to £58 million for the current year, which the government says represents the largest investment ever made toward protecting Jewish communities.

According to the announcement, the funding will be used to increase police presence and patrols in Jewish areas, enhance protective security at synagogues, schools, and community centres, and deploy both specialist and plain-clothed officers within these communities.

In parallel, the government said it would fast-track legislation to expand powers targeting individuals and groups acting on behalf of state-sponsored organisations. Under the proposed measures, anyone operating as a proxy for such groups could be investigated and prosecuted under the National Security Act.

The move comes amid rising concern over alleged Iranian proxy activity. As previously reported, a group identified as Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamiya, described as Iran-linked, has claimed responsibility for the attack, although it has not provided evidence to substantiate the claim.

Authorities have also raised concerns about a broader tactic involving the use of criminal proxies. The Metropolitan Police referenced this issue following arson attacks in northwest London earlier this month.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans addressed the emerging threat, stating:

“We are considering whether this tactic is being used here in London - recruiting violence as a service. Individuals carrying out these crimes often have no allegiance to the cause and are taking quick cash for their crimes. To anyone even considering getting involved – my message to you would be this - the stakes are high - and it is absolutely not worth the risk for a small reward.”

By Tamilla Hasanova