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UK local council votes to end decades-old twin city agreement with Haifa

From Jerusalem Post · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

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  • The Green-led Hackney Council in the UK voted to initiate the formal process of ending its 1968 twinning agreement with Haifa, Israel.
  • Proponents cited international legal arguments and human rights concerns regarding the ongoing conflict, aligning the decision with manifesto pledges.
  • Opponents argued Haifa is a model of coexistence and diversity, criticizing the move as ignorant and bigoted, while an egg was thrown at a reporter during a protest outside the town hall.

Hackney Council, now led by a Green Party majority, has voted to begin the process of severing its long-standing twinning relationship with Haifa, Israel. Established in 1968, the agreement was founded on principles of working-class solidarity, multi-faith cooperation, and medical links. Previous attempts by the Palestine Solidarity Campaign to end the ties were unsuccessful under the previous Labour administration.

Hackney Mayor defends the move as consistent with town's values

— Zoë GarbettHackney Mayor defending the decision to end the twinning agreement with Haifa.

The Green Party pursued this measure as a manifesto commitment, with proponents arguing that maintaining institutional ties conflicts with human rights and international law. Hackney Mayor Zoë Garbett defended the decision, stating it aligns with the council's values and commitment to human rights, justice, and international solidarity. This move follows the Green Party's majority victory in the May local elections.

Conversely, opposition councilors and community representatives criticized the decision. Councilor Simche Steinberger highlighted Haifa's progressive nature and its role as a model of coexistence, noting its diverse population and leadership, including Green, Arab, and Communist party representatives on its council. Phil Rosenberg, President of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, condemned the vote as ignorant and bigoted, asserting that Haifa should be celebrated, not censured, for its diversity.

the only hospital in the entire Israel which you have connection and only because of the twinning

— Simche SteinbergerCouncilor criticizing the decision, highlighting Haifa's progressive nature and medical links.

During a protest organized by the Palestine Solidarity Campaign outside Hackney Town Hall, video footage captured an egg being thrown at a reporter. The council's decision has drawn sharp reactions, with critics questioning the Green Party's understanding of Haifa's inclusive character and its implications for international relations and local community values.

Tonight, the Hackney Green Party showed its ignorance and bigotry. Haifa is a diverse city, widely seen as a model of ethnic and religious coexistence. The city is led by a progressive mayor and its council includes representatives from Green, Arab and Communist parties. If the Hackney Greens had any genuine interest in peace they would celebrate Haifa, not censure it. This vote represents the prioritiz

— Phil RosenbergPresident of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, condemning the Hackney Council's decision.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Jerusalem Post. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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