Security chiefs: No ‘specific information’ of threat to UK Jews after Brussels attack
Jewish community institutions in the UK have been told there is no specific threat, following a series of terrorist attacks in Brussels which left over 20 dead.
The Community Security Trust and Board of Deputies sought to reassure British Jews of their safety after bombings at Brussels Airport and Maelbeek Metro station in Belgium.
The CST wrote on their blog, that immediately after the attacks they were “in direct contact with Scotland Yard, regional Police forces and Government.. to ensure that security levels remain appropriate”.
They stressed that there is “no specific information relating to possible attacks against the UK or our Jewish community”, but urged “all communal venues, organisations and events ensure existing security procedures are reviewed and rigorously enforced.”
The Board said: “These heinous attacks, which are sadly becoming disturbingly common on our continent, highlight the absolute necessity of robust international co-operation in the fight against trans-border terror”
“This morning the Board is in touch with communal colleagues based in Brussels, namely the European Jewish Congress, World Jewish Congress and American Jewish Committee, and we continue to monitor the situation.”
“We have also written to the Belgian Jewish community to express our solidarity. As the extent of the attacks become clearer, we will ensure that the Jewish community’s solidarity is communicated to the Belgian Embassy in London.”
British Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis said: “Once again, with inhuman brutality and disregard for the sanctity of life, terrorists have murdered and maimed innocent men and women in Europe. But, while they rejoice in the pain that that they have visited upon us, we will not be cowed. If anything, they have strengthened our commitment to the values of peaceful coexistence, democracy, the rule of law and human dignity. Our resolve cannot be broken by terror, whether it strikes in Israel, Turkey, Paris or Brussels.”
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