British Jews express outrage over Minister Chikli's UK guest: 'A thug who represents the worst of Britain'

The two main organizations representing British Jewry – the Jewish Leadership Council (JLC) and the Board of Deputies of British Jews – sharply criticized Diaspora Affairs Minister Amichai Chikli overnight (Saturday to Sunday) and this morning for his invitation to Israel extended to far-right British figure Tommy Robinson. The Chief Rabbi of the UK has not yet commented on the issue.

“Tommy Robinson is a thug who represents the worst of Britain,” stated the Council, which represents hundreds of Jewish organizations. “His presence undermines those genuinely working to tackle Islamist extremism and foster community cohesion.”

“Minister Chikli has proven himself to be a diaspora minister in name only. In our darkest hour, he has ignored the views of the vast majority of British Jews, who utterly and consistently reject Robinson and everything he stands for.”

Chikli responded to the criticism in an interview with Aryeh Golan on the “This Morning” show on Kan Reshet Bet, defending his decision to invite Robinson to Israel:

“He is an excellent person, brings people out to protest against radical Islam, defends Israel, and is a prominent voice in Britain. I’m aware of his problematic past, but aligning with conservative forces is important in the fight against radical Islam.”

Tommy Robinson led mass demonstrations in London about two weeks ago against what he calls “the Islamization of Britain.” He represents the far-right, even further right than Nigel Farage’s Reform Party, and has a criminal record with multiple convictions.

On Friday, Chikli published a statement announcing Robinson’s invitation to Israel, saying:

“Tommy is a brave leader at the forefront of the fight against radical Islam.”

“At a time when Jews across Europe are facing growing antisemitism, it is essential to strengthen ties with allies who refuse to remain silent. He has proven to be a true friend of Israel and the Jewish people, unafraid to speak the truth and confront hatred,” Chikli added.

The invitation is in line with Chikli’s broader trend of aligning with far-right movements across Europe, excluding only Germany’s AfD (Alternative for Germany) and Austria’s Freedom Party, a move that continues to provoke mainstream European political parties.