The London Borough of Hackney has voted to sever its 60-year twinning relationship with the Israeli city of Haifa, a decision that has sparked controversy and the possibility of legal action. The motion to end the partnership was passed during the council’s first full meeting under Green Party control, led locally by Mayor Zoë Garbett.

The council’s decision comes amid heightened tensions related to the conflict in Gaza, which some members cited as a reason for ending the association. The twinning had been established in 1968, symbolizing a cultural and civic bond between the two diverse cities.

Hackney has one of the largest Jewish populations in London, including a significant ultra-Orthodox community. Critics of the council’s resolution—including the advocacy group Campaign Against Anti-Semitism (CAAS)—argue that the move undermines community cohesion and fails to represent the views of all residents. The group has reportedly instructed legal counsel to evaluate whether the council breached its public sector equality duty, which mandates promoting good relations among different communities.

A CAAS spokesperson emphasized that Haifa is a city notable for coexistence, where Jewish, Arab, and Baha’i populations live side by side peacefully. In contrast, they highlighted that other councils in London, such as Brent, have pursued twinning with Nablus, a city where the Palestinian Authority reportedly restricts Jewish residency, underscoring the complexity of political symbolism in these decisions.

Former Conservative attorney general Sir Michael Ellis also criticized Hackney’s council, suggesting their decision was based on a false factual narrative and potentially predetermined before consultation processes were completed. He warned that the un-twinning could harm community relations within Hackney, particularly given its significant Jewish demographic.

Members of the Hackney council defending the vote described it as consistent with the borough’s values, though the move notably took place without consultation with the borough’s six Jewish councillors. Observers expressed concern that the decision might appear performative and politically motivated, detracting from pressing local issues such as crime and housing pressures.

Further complicating the situation was the timing of the council’s request for Haifa’s response by October 7—coinciding with the anniversary of a major historical tragedy for the Jewish community—prompting additional criticism and allegations of insensitivity.

Representatives of Hackney council have not publicly responded to these criticisms. Meanwhile, the city of Haifa has yet to announce how it will respond to Hackney’s decision, with some observers suggesting it may reconsider the relationship from its side as well.