The UK Border Force has come under fire for its treatment of two Israeli survivors of the Nova Music Festival, who were reportedly detained for two hours at Manchester Airport upon their arrival. The men had flown to the UK to speak about their experiences and raise awareness for a non-profit organization they established to aid survivors of terror attacks.
Video footage surfaced showing a Border Force officer speaking aggressively to the two men, who are said to be suffering from PTSD following their ordeal during the festival in Israel on October 7th the previous year. The festival was marred by a violent incursion by Hamas, resulting in the rape, torture, and murder of over 1,000 civilians.
In the footage, the Border Force officer is heard saying, “Knock the attitude off. We’ve made the decision that you’re coming in, so just let us do the checks we need to do, and keep quiet. Look at me. Are you clear with that? Good. We’re the bosses not you.”
Home Secretary James Cleverley has addressed the incident, stating that it is being investigated, and emphasizing that the government does not tolerate antisemitism or any form of discrimination.
According to Marc Levy, the Chief Executive of the Jewish Representative Council of Greater Manchester & Region, the Israeli men did not exhibit argumentative behavior towards the officer. He condemned the officer’s tone as unnecessary and demeaning.
The men, who are believed to be brothers, were allegedly detained for two hours, during which the same Border Police officer reportedly made a remark suggesting concern about the men replicating their actions in Gaza.
In a letter addressed to Manchester Airport Group, Levy expressed unequivocal condemnation for the detention and mistreatment of the Israeli nationals, asserting that it was motivated by antisemitic intent.
He stated, “The only reason for their detention and interrogation was because they are Israeli.”
Levy further elaborated that the two men had shown bravery during the festival attack, with one of them being a medic who remained on-site to aid others and treat the wounded.
A spokesperson for the Home Office acknowledged the complaint made against Border Force staff at Manchester Airport and assured that an investigation is underway. They reiterated the government’s stance against antisemitism in all its forms.
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