Two Jewish schools in London have closed 'in the interests of the safety of our precious children' amid the conflict between Israel and Hamas.
Torah Vodaas Primary School in Edgware and Ateres Beis Yaakov Primary School in Colindale said they would not reopen until Monday.
According to Sky News, Rabbi Feldman, of Torah Vodaas, said in a letter to parents said although there is 'no specific threat to our school' it was 'not a decision that has been taken lightly'.
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This comes after the Community Security Trust (CST) said it had recorded 139 antisemitic incidents, including assaults, in the past four days — a 400 percent increase on the same period in 2022.
Rabbi David Meyer, chief executive of the Partnership for Jewish Schools told Sky News: "There are justifications for parents being concerned.
"At the same time, we are very fortunate. We are living in a country that is very supportive of the community.
"Every school has security which is supported by the government, in order to ensure the children within the community can attend school safely."
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Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has also announced £3 million in extra funding to protect schools, synagogues and other Jewish community buildings in the UK in response to Hamas’ attacks in Israel.
He said: “This is now the third deadliest terror attack in the world since 1970.
“The United Kingdom must and will continue to stand in solidarity with Israel.
“At moments like this, when the Jewish people are under attack in their homeland, Jewish people everywhere can feel less safe.
“That is why we must do everything in our power to protect Jewish people everywhere in our country.
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“If anything is standing in the way of keeping the Jewish community safe, we will fix it. You have our complete backing.”
The total funding for Jewish community protection security for 2023-24 is now in the region of £18 million.
The King has also held talks with the Chief Rabbi at Buckingham Palace after expressing his concern.
In a statement after the pair met at Buckingham Palace, Sir Ephraim Mirvis said: “At a time when Jews around the world are grieving following the unspeakable evil perpetrated against loved ones in Israel, I want to thank His Majesty King Charles III for expressing in person his deep concern, and his support for the Jewish community.
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“His words of comfort and solidarity give us strength at this dark time.”
A Met Police spokesperson said: “Londoners will continue to see officers on the streets, in our communities across London in the days to come following days to reassure and protect.
“We have zero tolerance for any hate crimes. Anyone with concerns, or who has witnessed any offences should speak to an officer or contact police online, via 101 or call 999 in an emergency.”
LADbible has contacted Torah Vodaas Primary School and Ateres Beis Yaakov Primary School for a comment.
Topics: UK News
Anish Vij