The UK government is reportedly preparing new legislation that would impose prison sentences of up to 14 years for individuals convicted of antisemitic attacks orchestrated by Iranian proxies. According to a report in The Times, the upcoming King's Speech will include measures empowering the Home Secretary to designate proxy groups as foreign intelligence services, even if perpetrators are unaware of their links to Tehran.
This move aims to counter Iranian-backed groups recruiting criminals for acts of terrorism and sabotage, particularly those targeting the Jewish community in recent weeks. Offenders acting on behalf of such groups could face a maximum of 14 years in prison.
Met Police Boosts Jewish Community Protection
The announcement of tougher sentences coincides with the Metropolitan Police launching a community protection team of 100 extra officers to safeguard Jewish communities. This comes despite Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley's earlier statement that 300 additional officers were needed to address rising antisemitism in London.
The new team will initially focus on protecting Jewish communities, integrating neighbourhood policing, specialist protection, and counter-terrorism capabilities to provide a more visible and coordinated presence. Since late March, London has witnessed a series of arson attacks on Jewish sites and a double stabbing in Golders Green, treated as a terrorist incident.
Government Support and Fast-Tracked Legislation
The Home Office is backing the Met with £18 million, alongside an additional £4 million through the Jewish Community Protective Security Grant for community-led initiatives. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood stated, "We will do everything in our power to rid society of the evil of antisemitism."
Meanwhile, the Director of Public Prosecutions, Stephen Parkinson, has issued fresh guidance to expedite hate crime prosecutions, aiming to curb a "pattern of copycat antisemitism." He instructed prosecutors that supporting evidence can be obtained after charges are filed.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, after hosting a roundtable with police, arts, higher education, and business leaders, emphasised a zero-tolerance approach to antisemitism on university campuses, expecting institutions to "demonstrate action" against student antisemitism. The Arts Council may also withdraw funding from those promoting antisemitism.
Addressing potential foreign involvement, Sir Keir confirmed the government is "fast-tracking legislation to tackle these malign threats" and investigating whether a foreign state is behind recent incidents. He warned that actions would have consequences if proven, stating, "Our message to Iran or any other country that might seek to foment violence, hatred or division in society is that it will not be tolerated."
