Educational charity StandWithUs UK has condemned the burning of an Israeli flag at a Jewish student event in London on Tuesday night.
According to several witnesses, individuals who were not guests shouted “Free Palestine” when they noticed the Israeli decorations at the venue. The individuals were given a warning by the venue management that they would be removed if they repeated the chant.
Reportedly, one of these individuals then approached the DJ stand and began burning the Israeli flags with a lighter. The individual was stopped, removed from the area and spoken to by police, who are continuing to investigate the incident.
A spokesperson for StandWithUs UK said were “appalled by the actions of the individual who felt that they could burn the emblems of the only Jewish State in the world during a party for Jewish students. We appreciate the support of the police and the CST and are cooperating with the investigation into this incident.”
StandWithUs UK executive director Isaac Zarfati said: ‘We commend those students who organised and attended the event. Despite the hateful actions, the event was a resounding success and highlights the strong desire from Jewish and Zionist students to express their support for Israel. StandWithUs UK will continue to support Zionist students on campus and will not be intimidated by the actions of a few to deter support for Israel.’
Jewish News has approached the Metropolitan Police and CST for comment.