A recent poll has revealed growing concerns among the British public about the safety of Jewish communities in the United Kingdom. The survey, conducted by More In Common and commissioned by the Pears Foundation, found that over 40% of Britons now consider the country unsafe for Jews, a notable increase amid rising antisemitic incidents.

The research highlights a shift in public perception, with 60% of respondents believing that being Jewish in the UK has become more dangerous in recent years. This comes against the backdrop of a series of attacks, including terrorist incidents at Heaton Park synagogue and in Golders Green. The proportion of people who regard the UK as a safe environment for Jews has declined from 55% in May 2024 to 43%, while those describing it as unsafe rose from 32% to 43%.

The poll also indicates growing apprehension about tensions between Jewish and Muslim communities. Both groups are perceived to be at heightened risk, with many respondents expressing concern that the ongoing conflict involving Israel and Palestine is exacerbating these dangers. While most Britons support sanctions against Israeli settlements in the West Bank, the majority do not explicitly take sides in the broader Israel-Palestine dispute. Instead, many anticipate that the conflict will inevitably increase tensions between British Jews and Muslims.

Luke Tryl, director of More In Common, noted that public attitudes towards the Israel-Palestine situation have remained largely consistent since the escalation of violence on October 7. He said the British public largely expresses "sheer horror at the impact on civilians on both sides" but is also increasingly worried about the domestic implications in terms of community relations and safety. Tryl emphasized that the rise in antisemitic incidents, combined with recent attacks, has led to a significant decline in confidence about Jewish security in the UK.

The poll further found that nearly 40% of Britons believe antisemitic hate crimes will continue to increase. Moreover, a substantial segment of the public shares concerns voiced by the chief rabbi of the UK, who has warned that certain government policies—such as sanctions on Israeli settlements—might inadvertently contribute to insecurity for British Jews.

The study also reflected anxieties over anti-Muslim hate, pointing to a broader climate of fear among minority communities linked to national and international developments. Many respondents expressed a desire for the UK government to take an active role in promoting peace in the Middle East as a way to reduce tensions domestically.

The UK government was approached for comment on the findings but had not responded at the time of publication.