Jewish Green Leader Considers Quitting After Party Votes to Equate Zionism with Racism

Vivien Lichtenstein, leader of the Jewish Greens, announced she may leave the party following its vote to equate Zionism with racism and support for a single Palestinian state.

Speaking on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, Lichtenstein said she is not worried about accusations of racism against herself due to her support for Israel’s right to exist, but is concerned that UK Jewish organisations and joint Arab-Jewish groups could be falsely labelled racist despite their work with Palestinians.

She noted anger within the party over Zack Polanski’s decision to miss the vote while campaigning in the Holborn and St Pancras by-election, which she views as prioritizing personal ambition over party principles.

Rabbi Jonathan Romain urged voters in The Jewish Chronicle to reject the Polanski Green Party, warning of a resurgence of antisemitism if the party continues down this path.

Polanski responded that everyone must feel safe and welcome in his party, defending the vote as inclusive, but the controversy highlights a growing split within the Greens over Middle East policy.

The incident underscores ongoing debates within European progressive parties about balancing anti-racism positions with support for Israel, reflecting broader tensions in UK politics.