Police arrest two people after Israeli flag with swastika put up at Royal Holloway, University of London
Police have arrested two people after an Israeli flag with a swastika was put up at Royal Holloway, University of London (RHUL). A Surrey Police spokesperson cofirmed that a man, 21, from Egham, and a woman, 19, from Englefield Green, were arrested in connection with the incident and then released on bail.
Last week, the President of RHUL Jewish Society tweeted a photo of an Israeli flag that had been placed on the RHUL’s library terrace, but with a swastika replacing the Star of David. The student wrote: “This was undeniably done by a student, as non-students don’t have access to the library. This is who we share a campus with. We see your attempts to intimidate us, but you will never succeed.”
In another tweet, the President shared a video recording that was sent to him. The video shows a protestor praising Hamas who can be heard saying: “If anyone ever tells you Hamas is, like, the real terrorists in this…no, it’s not. They’re actually defending their country.” Hamas is an antisemitic genocidal terrorist group.
According to the International Definition of Antisemitism, “Drawing comparisons of contemporary Israeli policy to that of the Nazis” is an example of antisemitism.
In a statement, the University’s Principal, Professor Paul Layzell, wrote: “Within our own community, we seek to uphold principles of respect for individuals, with an abhorrence of violence, and a belief that education can be used to make society better for all. We all have a role to play in maintaining a peaceful, respectful, inclusive and welcoming community, on and off campus. I ask that we all play our part. Individuals who fail to behave appropriately will be subject to our full disciplinary procedures.”
However, nowhere in the statement did it mention antisemitism or support for their Jewish students, despite RHUL having adopted the International Definition of Antisemitism.
Campaign Against Antisemitism monitors the adoption of the International Definition of Antisemitism by universities.
If any students are concerned about antisemitism on campus or need assistance, they can call us on 0330 822 0321, or e-mail [email protected].
