U.K. Green Party leader vows to protect Jews after 'Zionism is racism' vote
Polanski said criticism of Israel and antisemitism must remain distinct after members voted to define Zionism as racism, while deputy Rachel Millward opposed the motion. Israel said it would ban him from entering the country over the vote
The UK Green Party sparked controversy and internal dissent after adopting a "Zionism is racism" policy, a decision that has led to resignations, condemnations, and distancing from the European Greens. The motion, passed with 1,022 votes to 813, makes the UK Green Party the first major European party to openly declare itself anti-Zionist.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar responded by banning Green Party leader Zack Polanski from entering Israel, describing the motion as an "antisemitic text" beyond the boundaries of legitimate political debate. The policy has garnered condemnation from various quarters, including Labour MPs, Jewish groups, and officials, who have reported the party to police and the Equality and Human Rights Commission over potential racial or religious hatred.
The decision has also prompted some prominent members to leave the party, including Amnesty International UK chair Sandy Ruthven and Julian Mellor. The European Greens have distanced themselves from the UK branch, expressing deep concern and demanding clarity from the leadership regarding their official policy towards self-determination, Jewish people, and the protection of Jewish individuals.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
This story
This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.
