Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, Opposition leader Kemi Badenoch and leader of the Liberal Democrats Sir Ed Davey have all wished Britain’s Jews a happy Chanukah.
Starmer told the JC: “I extend my warmest wishes to Jewish communities across the UK for a joyful eight days of celebration.
He added: “This festival of light symbolises hope in dark times and provides a chance to pray for a brighter future for all. It also invites us as a nation to reflect on the immense contributions of Jewish people to our country, enriching our society and making it vibrant and strong.”
He also noted that: “This year, Chanukah coincides with Christmas Day – a rare occurrence, happening only for the fifth time since 1900. May the goodwill of the season inspire happiness and peace for everyone.”
Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch said: “The story of Chanukah holds a message of hope and faith for us all”, adding: “Centuries ago, the Jewish homeland was invaded and its Temple desecrated. Yet a small band of brothers fought back against overwhelming odds and entered Jerusalem victorious. Centuries later, modern Israel is also a story of strength, resilience, and self-determination, defying the odds.”
She went on to say: “As we welcome the beginning of Chanukah here in the UK, it is a time of joy for family and friends. It is also a time to reflect on the enduring strength of British Jewry, the richness of Jewish life in the UK and the challenges so many have faced in recent years. Since October 7 we have seen grief and trauma. We must unite in our call for the return of British hostage Emily Damari, whose mother Mandy I recently met, and pray that she too will be able to celebrate Chanukah with us all.”
Noting a “disturbing rise in antisemitism on our streets, on our campuses, and online” the Leader of the Opposition said that “Antisemitism is not just a threat to British Jews. It is a threat to Britain.”
“This year, Chanukah serves as a powerful reminder that light will drive out darkness. I stand with you in my commitment to rooting out the tragic resurgence of antisemitism in the UK and I wish everyone a peaceful and joyful Chanukah”, Badenoch said.
Liberal Democrat party leader Sir Ed Davey extended “warmest wishes to all our Jewish friends and neighbours at this wonderful time of year” on behalf of his party.
He told the JC: “I know that these have been some very dark times for the Jewish community, here in the UK and around the world. With an alarming rise in antisemitism, to record levels. And those hostages, still held captive by Hamas terrorists after all this time. So I want you to know that your Liberal Democrat friends stand with you.”
He continued: “And we hope that the glow of your candles will light up these dark nights and light the way ahead. Towards the release of the hostages, and an end to the cycle of violence for everyone” as well as wishing the community “a Chanukah of peace and joy.”
