Antisemitism in Britain remains close to record levels, with nearly 2,000 incidents recorded during the first half of 2026, according to the Community Security Trust (CST).
The Jewish community security charity recorded 1,926 anti-Jewish hate incidents between January and June, a 21% increase on the same period last year. It said the figure was the second-highest recorded for the first six months of any year.
Among the most serious incidents was the stabbing of two Jewish worshippers in north London's Golders Green in April. Police are treating the attack as terrorism.
The first half of the year also saw a series of arson attacks targeting Jewish institutions and premises in London. Four ambulances belonging to a Jewish volunteer emergency medical service were among the property set alight.
The CST said antisemitic incidents rose sharply following the outbreak of the US-Israel conflict with Iran in February. British authorities have subsequently accused Iran of using proxies to carry out attacks in Britain and elsewhere in Europe. Tehran has repeatedly denied involvement.
"These attacks should concern everyone who cares about Britain and the threats against it," CST chief executive Mark Gardner said, warning that antisemitism could be driven by a range of extremist ideologies as well as alleged state-backed activity.
The latest figures come after an attack on a synagogue in Manchester last October in which two Jewish worshippers were killed.
The incidents have contributed to growing concern among Britain's Jewish community, with many people reporting increased anxiety about attending religious services and community events.
The government has pledged additional funding to improve security.
Earlier this month, ministers announced £250 million over the next three years to strengthen protection for Jewish communities, including additional policing support for schools, synagogues and community centres.
"Antisemitism goes against our country's values and I will do everything in my power to protect our Jewish communities," policing minister Sarah Jones said.
Britain is home to an estimated 280,000 Jews, according to the CST. The charity monitors antisemitic incidents across the country and provides security advice to Jewish communities and institutions. Photo by Chabuk at the English-language Wikipedia, Wikimedia commons.
