London Council Cancels Hanukkah Menorah Display Amid Community Tensions

The decision, made in response to increased hate crimes and Middle East conflict, has been criticized by Jewish community leaders.

Havering Council in East London has cancelled its annual Hanukkah menorah display due to fears of 'inflaming tensions' within the community.
The decision was made in light of an increase in hate crimes in Havering, both towards the Jewish and Muslim communities, and the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
The council insists that the decision was not motivated by antisemitism and is concerned about potential vandalism or other actions against the installation.
Jewish community leaders have criticized the decision, arguing that it undermines relations with the local community and is the wrong response to the rise in antisemitism.
A temporary installation and event will take place on December 7th to celebrate the beginning of Hanukkah, but it will be taken down afterwards.