UK Jewish Board Faces Internal Disciplinary Actions Over Gaza War Criticism

Report By Safarti Tarjuman International Desk

Tensions have intensified within the Board of Deputies of British Jews, as 36 of its members now face disciplinary proceedings after signing an open letter criticizing Israel’s actions in the Gaza war.

The letter, published in the Financial Times, expressed deep concern over the ongoing conflict and stated: “Israel’s soul is being ripped out.” The signatories emphasized their Jewish values as the basis for speaking out, saying they could no longer “turn a blind eye or remain silent.”

In response, the Board of Deputies confirmed this week that the signatories are now “subject to a complaints procedure” following multiple formal complaints. The board clarified that the letter does not represent its official policy toward Israel.

One prominent signatory, Harriett Goldenberg, has been suspended as vice-chair of the international division and asked to temporarily step back from the executive committee pending the outcome of the investigation, according to The Jewish Chronicle. A special executive committee meeting was held on Tuesday to assess the matter.

Chief Executive Michael Wegier noted that the signatories had caused public confusion:

“Publishing such views in a national newspaper, in their capacity as deputies, led many to mistakenly believe this was the Board’s official position.”

The open letter was primarily backed by deputies from Reform, Liberal, and Masorti communities, while the majority of complaints reportedly came from United Synagogue members, the UK’s largest Orthodox denomination.

The controversy underscores a growing divide within the UK Jewish community over the Israel-Gaza conflict, now in its 18th month, and the boundaries of internal dissent.

Goldenberg has not yet issued a public statement regarding her suspension.