As antisemitism evolves, more Diaspora Jews are forced to pass anti-Zionist 'purity tests'

Physical safety is not the only concern for Jewish life in the UK; a growing trend of casual antisemitism requires Jews to pass "purity tests" based on their views of Israel, according to Rabbi Yoni Birnbaum.

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When Jews in the UK are required to pass a test that no other group of people is required to endure, this reflects ‘actual anti-Jewish hate.’

Birnbaum, a doctor and rabbi at London's Kinloss synagogue, described increased security measures at the synagogue, including volunteers and a single, monitored entrance, following recent incidents like an attack on a Manchester synagogue and an attempted firebombing in Golders Green.

He shared a personal experience where a holiday rental owner emailed him, questioning his Jewishness and demanding he condemn Israeli actions in Gaza and the West Bank. Birnbaum stated this "litmus test" reflects "actual anti-Jewish hate" and is not unique to him, as many Jews globally face similar demands to prove they are "good Jews" whose views align with societal expectations.

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Our curiosity was piqued by your email address, from which we gather that you are a rabbi … Can you confirm to us that you are a member of a progressive, liberal Jewish movement and that this movement condemns the violent actions of the Israeli army, on orders from the Israeli government, in Gaza, the occupied West Bank, and recently, in Lebanon?

Despite the concerning shift, Birnbaum stressed that this form of antisemitism "was not everywhere" and aimed to avoid spreading despair. He noted that while the issue is growing, it is important to remember that it does not represent all of society.

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The lesson from this episode extends far beyond one holiday rental in France. It is a reminder that antisemitism, and indeed prejudice of any kind, rarely announces itself