A prominent member of the Jewish Council of Scotland (JCoS) has expressed that Jewish people are currently experiencing a level of fear reminiscent of the period just before the Holocaust, following a series of violent attacks. Dr Sue Siegel, who also chairs a synagogue in Glasgow, stated that individuals are hesitant to walk the streets and many are concealing visible markers of their Jewish identity, such as skull caps and Star of David pendants.
Concerns Over Safety and Security
Dr Siegel highlighted that Jewish communities across Scotland are increasingly worried about physical violence. As a result, they have begun to limit the publicity of communal events to reduce the risk of being targeted. This heightened caution comes in the wake of a suspected terror attack in Golders Green, north London, where two Jewish men were stabbed. A 45-year-old Somali-born British national was arrested in connection with the incident, which is the latest in a string of attacks on Jewish sites in London, including arson on community ambulances and attempted arson at synagogues.
Comparison to Historical Persecution
In an interview with BBC Radio Scotland Breakfast, Dr Siegel elaborated on the community's distress: "We're concerned about walking the streets. Most of the people I know are not wearing any visible identity related to being Jewish. I know that some of the young men are not wearing their skull caps. I know many women are now hiding the Star of David, and it is very concerning." She further noted that synagogues are bolstering security and events are being conducted more privately. Dr Siegel drew a stark parallel to history, stating, "This is similar to what people felt just before the Holocaust."
Blaming Jews for Middle East Conflicts
Dr Siegel also addressed the feeling among Jewish Scots that they are being held accountable for geopolitical events in the Middle East. "Very often, Jews are being blamed for what's happening in the Middle East, and we don't quite understand where this surge is coming from," she said. Despite these challenges, she acknowledged the support from authorities and other faith communities, noting that police have been "extremely supportive" and that she has received letters of solidarity from other religious groups in the past 24 hours.
Dr Siegel concluded by emphasizing the broader context of hate crimes, stating, "I think other ethnic groups have experienced similar situations. There have been attacks on mosques and in other places, and I think people do realise how difficult it is for our community."
