Labour MP Damien Egan, along with his Israeli husband Yossi Felberbaum, has been offered additional security measures due to threats from protesters. Egan, recently

elected as the Member of Parliament for Kingswood, faced a large Tory majority in the by-election but emerged victorious. However, since his election, he and Felberbaum have been subjected to abuse by anti-Israel extremists.

The Parliamentary authorities are reportedly in discussions with Egan regarding his security arrangements in light of the threats made against him and his husband. The couple's presence at the election count drew attention, with some individuals targeting them with hateful messages on social media platforms.

Egan's relationship with Felberbaum, who hails from Israel and has served in the IDF, has attracted controversy. Allegations have been made online, including by rapper Lowkey, accusing Felberbaum of involvement in Israeli military intelligence activities. Such accusations have sparked further vitriol and threats directed towards Egan and his husband.

Responses from various quarters have condemned the targeting of Egan and Felberbaum. Mike Katz, chair of the Jewish Labour Movement, denounced the attacks as "disgusting" and characterized them as manifestations of antisemitism. He called on those perpetrating such actions to reflect on their behavior.

The incidents involving Egan and Felberbaum are not isolated, as other political figures, such as Tory MP Tobias Ellwood and Minister Mike Freer, have also faced threats and attacks due to their stances on Israel and antisemitism.

The situation highlights broader concerns about the rise of online abuse and threats directed at individuals based on their personal backgrounds or political affiliations. It underscores the need for enhanced security measures and concerted efforts to combat hate speech and discrimination in all its forms. Photo by Hma6112, Wikimedia commons.