Security concerns rise in the UK amid Israel-Palestine war
The news of the ongoing war between Israel and Palestine tears the world. With its devastating toll on numerous human lives and the shattered communities it leaves behind, the conflict has captured the attention and concern of people on a global scale. The crisis has also further reignited tensions between supporters of Israel and advocates for Palestinian rights across the United Kingdom.
Like in many parts of Europe, activists and communities of both sides have arisen and rallied to the streets to show their stance. Thousands of “Free Palestine” deomstrators have taken the streets since the middle of October, denouncing Israel’s actions in the Gaza Strip, including at Marble Arch on Saturday 21 October 2023.
The conflict in the Middle East and the streets full of protesters present more potential security impacts on the country. The UK has faced ripples of problems related to the war, involving international citizens being held hostages, the closing of Jewish schools and properties in the country, and British media critiques.
Terrorism, diplomatic strains, refugee crises, and energy security may also arise as effects of the ongoing war. In such dire situations, it becomes increasingly important to understand how to navigate these security problems when they surface unexpectedly.
Post-Hamas attack rising issues
The recent Hamas attack in Israel has led to the hostage-taking of over 150 individuals, including women and children, and resulted in over a thousand casualties.
While most hostages are believed to be Israeli, there is a likelihood that American and British citizens are among them, according to statements by UK Defence Secretary Grant Shapps. The exact nationalities of the hostages have not been confirmed.
Hamas is currently holding these individuals in Gaza, and Israel has expressed its intent to maintain the siege until their release. The UK is organising flights for vulnerable British citizens and diplomats leaving Israel, with a cost of £300 per passenger.
The Israel-Palestine war may further spur terrorist activities within the UK, fuelled by sympathisers of either side to escalate tensions between communities and give rise to hate crimes. With the tension between two opposing communities rekindled, the country is much more dire than it normally is.
Closed institutions and refugee concern
Multiple Jewish schools in north London closed their doors in response to planned Palestinian support protests that raised fears of potential violence and attacks on Jewish institutions and individuals. Some Jewish schools have increased their level of security, with additional security guards and tightened drop-off and pick-up procedures for students.
Parents are feeling the pressure to alter their children’s uniforms to minimise any indication of their Jewish identity. A leader in the Jewish Haredi community also advised concerned parents to keep their children home that day, prioritising their safety during these uncertain times.
A surge in Palestinian refugees fleeing the region and seeking asylum in the UK could also strain resources and lead to socio-economic challenges. The influx would necessitate additional funding and support for housing, healthcare, and education. Security concerns may also arise, as the government must assess the risks associated with potential extremist or criminal elements among the refugees.
MI5 and the Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre (JTAC) will continue to monitor domestic terrorism threat level and adjust accordingly based on four key factors: available intelligence, terrorist capability, terrorist intentions, and timescale.
The current national threat level is ‘substantial’, which means an attack is ‘likely’.
For those concerned about being impacted by some of the arising problems, consider the services that best align with your specific needs. Marengo can help you navigate these challenging times more effectively, ensure your security is well-maintained, and provide uplift where necessary.
Sources:
https://www.opendemocracy.net/en/israel-palestine-hamas-uk-suella-braverman-protest-rights/
