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British Greens Battle Antisemitism Scandal as Jewish Leader Zack Polanski Targets Historic Gains in Local Elections
Zack Polanski faces questions after criticism of police footage, while Green candidates in England are accused of antisemitism and polls show 25% blame the party.
Ahead of local elections on Thursday, Green Party Leader Zack Polanski faces intense scrutiny as multiple candidates confront antisemitism accusations, with the party grappling with internal investigations into offensive social media posts.
Internal probes involve over 30 candidates accused of defending the October 7 massacres or questioning whether Zionism is a mental illness, while Labour claims it will expose 25 candidates for holding 'disturbing views' and supporting Hamas.
Polanski told the BBC on Wednesday that such messages were 'unacceptable,' emphasizing the party is implementing a 'standardized vetting process' and 'compulsory training' for all candidates to prevent antisemitism.
Jewish leaders and London's top police officer Rowley criticized Polanski, arguing his response risks inflaming antisemitic sentiment as violence against British Jews surges, with Rowley warning that public criticism of police was 'not the appropriate route.'
Despite the scandal, the Greens remain poised to make gains in Labour strongholds during Thursday's local elections, as polling indicates the party has surged with younger Jewish voters amid national antisemitism concerns.