Monbiot Condemns 4 UK Papers' Cartoons as Antisemitic, Questions Farage Invite to 2,000-Strong Rally
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · May 14
Monbiot Condemns 4 UK Papers' Cartoons as Antisemitic, Questions Farage Invite to 2,000-Strong Rally
1 articles · Updated · The Guardian · May 14
Summary
More than 2,000 Jews signed a petition against Nigel Farage’s appearance at a London antisemitism rally, which invited him but not Green co-leader Zack Polanski.
Monbiot argues that decision reflects a wider double standard, saying right-wing media and Reform UK face less scrutiny over antisemitism than the left.
Four British newspapers — the Times, Telegraph, Mail and Sun — are accused of depicting Polanski with imagery echoing Nazi-era Jewish caricatures; Monbiot says none has apologized.
Polanski’s own record is not spared: Monbiot says antisemitism in the Greens must be stamped out, noting 2 Green candidates were arrested and Labour researchers flagged 25 council candidates.
The column says selective outrage risks turning antisemitism into a political weapon, weakening public trust as attacks on British Jews continue.
When both parties have extremist members, who decides who is a true ally against UK antisemitism?
Is the focus on left-wing antisemitism a political strategy that overlooks far-right extremism?
Why do major UK newspapers face no consequences for publishing antisemitic caricatures in 2026?
The 2026 UK Antisemitism Surge: Political Smears, Media Tropes, and Community Response
Overview
Recent antisemitism controversies in the UK have centered on Green Party leader Zack Polanski, who faced intense criticism from main party leaders and British media after attacks on Jewish and Muslim Londoners. Media outlets, including The Sun, accused Polanski of failing to address racism within his party, despite providing no evidence, while also using imagery questioned for antisemitic undertones. This campaign appeared aimed at undermining Polanski’s Jewish identity, especially given his pro-Palestinian stance. The situation escalated with public statements from figures like Nigel Farage, highlighting how political and media narratives can fuel division and complicate efforts to address antisemitism.