Thames Valley Police to strengthen protection of Jewish communities ahead of holidays
Thames Valley Police in the United Kingdom will strengthen security measures for Jewish communities in the counties of Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire during the High Holy Days. The operation, called “Tishrei,” will begin with Rosh Hashanah on Friday and will cover Yom Kippur, Sukkot and Simchat Torah.
Patrols near synagogues
Residents can expect an increased law enforcement presence near synagogues and in surrounding areas. The measures will involve local police patrols, armed officers, Project Servator measures and other specialized resources.
As The Jerusalem Post reports, the operation is intelligence-led and aims to prevent crime and ensure a rapid response to potential incidents. It is funded by the Home Office through the Protecting Jewish Communities Fund and implemented in cooperation with the Community Security Trust.
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Cooperation with communities
Assistant Chief Constable Christian Bunt, who is leading the operation, said that police are aware of local Jewish communities’ security concerns ahead of the holidays. According to him, armed and unarmed officers will be on duty near synagogues and in local areas, while community engagement staff will speak with residents.
Police explained the increased security measures by the rise in antisemitic incidents worldwide following Hamas attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023. A Community Security Trust representative said the organization had been preparing for the holidays in coordination with police across the country so that communities could celebrate them safely.
