The formation of a Sussex Friends of Israel group was announced at a Zionist Federation-organised meeting on the Middle East situation held at Brighton’s Ralli Hall, which was attended by 150 people.

Ronnie Bloom, who will chair the group, said afterwards: “With the unparalleled level of antisemitism in the town, we feel our organisation will be able to make people understand the truth about Israel.”

The meeting was chaired by the ZF’s Alan Aziz and speakers included Christian Friends of Israel chief executive Jacob Vince. ZF president Eric Moonman was due to have addressed the event but turned back en route after feeling unwell.