Keir Starmer hosted his first Chanukah reception at Downing Street on Tuesday, pledging to do "everything I can" to secure the release of hostages held in Gaza and to end the suffering for their families.
The event was attended by a broad range of Jewish community leaders, including Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis, representatives from the Charedi and Progressive Jewish communities, as well as other prominent figures.
In his speech, the Prime Minister expressed admiration for the Jewish community's resilience, describing how it continues to "shine a light" on wider society, especially during difficult times.
In his speech, the Prime Minister said how Jewish community continued to 'shine a light' on wider society (Image:Getty)
Starmer told the guests: “You have every right to be here,” adding that Downing Street is a place for everyone, including the Jewish community, which, he said, played a vital role in British society.
Starmer also acknowledged the challenges faced by the Jewish community this year, highlighting the rise in antisemitism and the ongoing hostage crisis in Gaza.
"I am absolutely acutely aware of just how difficult the year has been on so many levels," Starmer said. “We will do everything we can so the Jewish community stands tall and proud and safe and secure, stamping out intimidation wherever we find it.”
The Prime Minister spoke movingly about his recent meetings with families of the hostages.
"We spoke at length, very personally," Starmer shared, recalling moments where they sat in silence, struggling to find words due to the emotional weight of the situation.
He added: "I've felt [their] torture – and I do genuinely think it's torture that the families are going through in relation to the awful situation of the hostages.”
The Prime Minister met Mandy Damari, mother of Emily Damari, the only British-Israeli citizen who is still in Gaza 440 days after her abduction by Hamas terrorists on October 7, 2023.
He reaffirmed his commitment to pushing for her release and the other 100 hostages, saying: “I have absolutely pledged, not just to you, not just to the country, but to them individually, to do absolutely everything I can – this government can – to bring them home.” His comments were met with applause from those in attendance.
Rabbi Mirvis also addressed the gathering, expressing gratitude to Starmer for his commitment to combating antisemitism and supporting the Jewish community.
He spoke of the anxiety surrounding the ongoing situation in Gaza and called for greater social cohesion in the UK, alongside a peaceful resolution to the Middle East conflict.
Speaking on a ceasefire, Strarmer said: “Yes, of course, we want an immediate ceasefire. But there is no ceasefire worthy of that name, which does not, as item number one, include the return of the hostages.”
Starmer concluded his remarks by reaffirming the government's commitment to combat antisemitism: "We will do everything we can so the Jewish community stands tall and proud and safe and secure...stamping out intimidation wherever we find it.”
Starmer’s first Chanukah in Downing Street included a performance from Alma Primary’s choir, who were asked to sing a selection of Chanukah songs to accompany the candlelighting.
Accompanied by headteacher Marc Shoffren and chair of Governors James Burns, the 17 children, ranging from eight to 11, had, said Shoffren, been practising non-stop since the invitation came through.
Olivia, aged nine, said: “It’s a once in lifetime opportunity, and to be able to do this when you are in primary school is amazing.”
Naama Omri, mother of one of the choir members said “We were beyond thrilled to learn about this incredible opportunity. What an amazing experience. Go Alma!”
Headteacher Marc Shoffren said: “It is a huge honour for our new school choir to be singing at the first Downing Street Chanukah celebration hosted by the new government. Our children are thrilled to be singing to the Prime Minister, as well as sharing the tradition of lighting candles of optimism and hope at Chanukah.”
Among the guests were novelist Howard Jacobson, historian Simon Sebag Montefiore, actress Tracey Ann Oberman, Board of Deputies President Phil Rosenberg, Jewish Leadership Council representatives Claudia Mendoza and Keith Black, as well as MPs, including Justice Minister Sarah Sackman and Cabinet Office Minister Georgia Gould. Several members of Labour Friends of Israel also attended.
As the evening ended, Starmer’s message reflected the enduring spirit of Chanukah: a light that persists through darkness, a faith that endures and a community that continues to inspire hope. “Chanukah Sameach,” he concluded.
