In a striking display of defiance and concern, Israel’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sharren Haskel, addressed a crowd in Manchester on Sunday while wearing a bulletproof vest. Her appearance came just days after her colleague, Diaspora Minister Amichai Chikli, invited far-right activist Tommy Robinson to Israel, sparking widespread controversy. Haskel’s visit followed a deadly attack on a Manchester synagogue on October 2, which left two dead and four wounded. Greater Manchester Police later admitted to shooting one of the victims, further intensifying tensions. Speaking to hundreds of mourners, Haskel declared, ‘Here as a Jew, I am not safe in your streets,’ emphasizing the threats faced by Jewish communities globally. She framed her bulletproof vest as a symbol of strength and unity, stating, ‘Wherever Jews are threatened, we stand united.’ Haskel’s presence in the UK has been contentious. Earlier this year, she faced condemnation from British parliamentarians for secretly filming them during a visit to Israel and posting disparaging remarks on social media. Despite this, she was permitted entry into the UK last week. Her visit coincided with Chikli’s announcement to host Tommy Robinson, a convicted criminal and far-right figure, in Israel. Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, has a history of stoking anti-Islamic sentiment and has been accused of antisemitism. Haskel defended Chikli’s decision, claiming that ‘people are entitled to speak their minds,’ while also calling for stronger measures against antisemitism in the UK. Chikli’s invitation to Robinson has drawn criticism from major British Jewish organizations, including the Board of Deputies of British Jews and the Jewish Leadership Council, who argue that Robinson’s presence undermines efforts to combat extremism. Chikli, however, has dismissed these concerns, labeling the Board as ‘openly aligned with left-wing, woke, pro-Palestinian parties.’ Meanwhile, Haskel met with UK Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch to discuss the alarming rise in antisemitism across Europe. She also addressed the Conservative Friends of Israel reception at the party’s annual conference, reinforcing her commitment to protecting Jewish communities worldwide.
Controversial Israeli minister visits UK as colleague invites Tommy Robinson to Israel
