Emirati Peace Activist Visits London Haredi Community, Criticizes UK’s Approach to Antisemitism

Amjad Taha, a prominent peace activist and influential social media figure from the United Arab Emirates, visited the Haredi Jewish community in Golders Green, London, to show solidarity following a series of antisemitic incidents. Speaking to the Jewish Chronicle, Taha criticized Britain for its "segregated diversity," contrasting it with the UAE’s model of coexistence where synagogues, mosques, and churches exist side by side. He expressed sorrow that many British Jews feel unable to openly display their identity, citing areas where wearing a kippah is unsafe.

Taha, a vocal opponent of Islamist extremist groups and Iranian influence, highlighted the UAE’s firm stance against the Muslim Brotherhood, which it designated a terrorist organization in 2014, and its strict penalties for antisemitism. He warned that Britain’s failure to take a similarly assertive approach allows extremist groups to flourish, including within British politics and society. He accused the Muslim Brotherhood of undermining Britain’s strength and security and criticized recent Western negotiations with Iran, arguing they empower militant proxies and do not bring peace.

During his visit, Taha toured the site of a recent stabbing attack outside a synagogue and the offices of a Jewish rescue organization targeted by arson. He also visited kosher businesses and a Jewish bookstore, purchasing books on Jewish theology. Accompanied by Rabbi Doron Birnbaum, Taha praised the Abraham Accords for fostering thriving Jewish life in the UAE, where approximately 7,000 Jews now live and contribute to cultural and technological growth.

Rabbi Birnbaum described the visit as inspiring, emphasizing the importance of building understanding and challenging extremism amid global divisions. Taha’s visit underscores ongoing efforts to promote interfaith dialogue and peace between Jewish and Arab communities in the Middle East and beyond.