102-Year-Old Jewish WWII Veteran Condemns Rising Antisemitism in Britain

Monty Goldstein, a 102-year-old Jewish veteran who served in the British Royal Artillery during World War II, has voiced deep sorrow over the recent surge in antisemitism in the UK. Having grown up in East London during the tense era of Oswald Mosley's fascists, Goldstein recalled that antisemitism was already a significant threat during the war years. Now, more than 80 years later, he observes that British Jews face similar hostility without any justification.

Goldstein expressed pain and confusion, asking, "What did I do to deserve this?" He highlighted that antisemitic hate crimes have notably increased, especially in areas like Golders Green, where some Jews fear walking the streets. Despite his quiet nature and lifelong loyalty to Britain, which he considers his only home, Goldstein lamented that England is no longer the country he once knew.

He called for stronger educational efforts to combat antisemitism, emphasizing that some groups promote hatred against Jews simply for their identity. Goldstein noted that although Jewish citizens strive to be exemplary and law-abiding, they are still often treated as second-class citizens, a reality he finds deeply unjust and alarming.

Born in July 1924 on Commercial Street in East London, Goldstein was conscripted into the British Army at 18 and served in an anti-tank unit defending London from German air raids. After the war, he joined the Association of Jewish Ex-Servicemen and Women (AJEX) and has participated in remembrance events ever since. He expressed regret that Britain no longer enjoys the respect it once did and that some people now hesitate to openly declare their English identity or display the national flag.

Currently residing in Chadwell Heath, East London, Goldstein advises Britons to live honestly, avoid trouble, help others, and fulfill their civic duties. He recently celebrated his 102nd birthday with family, reflecting gratefully on his longevity while noting that few of his wartime comrades remain alive today.