British synagogues and Jewish communities have been placed on heightened alert amid concerns over Iran-backed ‘revenge’ attacks, following Israel’s recent airstrikes on Iranian targets.
The Community Security Trust (CST)—the national organisation protecting British Jews—warned that the threat level remains “unusually high”, advising the public to be vigilant and avoid displaying Jewish or Israeli symbols in public.
CST Increases Protection at Jewish Sites
In a statement issued late Friday evening, the CST confirmed that security had been elevated at synagogues, schools, and community centres across the UK. The organisation cited Iran’s historic use of terror tactics against Jews globally as justification for preemptive precautions.
“Our security measures have been at a very high level since the October 7 terrorist attack on Israel. We will now intensify those efforts, in partnership with police and government agencies,” said a CST spokesperson.
Although no specific intelligence has indicated an imminent threat, the CST has urged the Jewish community to follow strict protocols and report suspicious behaviour.
Warnings from Israeli and UK Authorities
Israel’s National Security Council has also warned that “terrorist elements” may attempt revenge attacks on Israeli and Jewish targets abroad. The alert follows an escalation in Middle East hostilities, with Israel launching strikes on Iranian assets after Iran sent over 100 drones toward Israeli territory.
In response, Israeli embassies and consulates worldwide have been temporarily closed, and citizens overseas are being asked to register their locations, in anticipation of potential evacuations.
London Protest Sparks Security Concerns
The alert coincides with a large pro-Palestine protest in central London on Friday. Demonstrators gathered in Parliament Square, waving Palestinian and Iranian flags and chanting “Stop bombing Iran” and “Ceasefire now.” Placards also called for the UK government to stop military aid to Israel and pressure it to de-escalate.
The Palestine Solidarity Campaign led the demonstration, posting video footage on social media and accusing Israel of “genocide” in Gaza.
MI5 and Police Disrupt Iranian Threats in the UK
Since 2022, UK security services and MI5 are reported to have disrupted over 20 Iranian-linked plots involving assassinations and kidnappings—mostly targeting Iranian dissidents.
In October 2024, MI5 Director General Sir Ken McCallum warned that Tehran could “repurpose UK-based criminal proxies”—including drug traffickers and street-level gangs—to carry out attacks if Britain was seen as supporting Israel militarily.
CST’s Advice to the Jewish Community
On its website, the CST has advised UK Jewish communities to:
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Secure entrances and exits at all buildings
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Report unfamiliar individuals or suspicious activity
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Avoid lingering outside synagogues or community centres
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Stay off social media if traveling as Israeli nationals
The Metropolitan Police are conducting “reassurance visits” to Jewish and Iranian communities to calm rising tensions.
Rising Antisemitism in the UK
Britain has recorded thousands of antisemitic incidents since the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack, with the CST noting that levels are near historic highs. Officials warn that renewed conflict in the Middle East could further inflame tensions on UK streets.
What Happens Next?
Security services remain on high alert. Jewish institutions across the UK continue operating under strict security protocols, while the CST and police request continued cooperation from the public.
