’Antisemitism exists here as it does everywhere’, say Friends of Israel members.

The topic was discussed at a public meeting with guest speaker Steven Jaffe of Northern Ireland Friends of Israel.

Mr Jaffe spoke about the rise of antisemitism across the UK and Europe at Onchan Elim church on Second Avenue.

As a consultant of The Jewish Leadership Council, a public affairs organisation for the Jewish community across the UK, he has visited a number of small regional Jewish communities around the British Isles.

’I was invited to the island by the Isle of Man Friends of Israel, which brings together Jews, Christians, people of all faiths and none, who want to see stronger links between the Isle of Man and Israel,’ he said.

’There is rising incidence of antisemitism, particularly on social media and sadly it has seeped into the political mainstream in the UK. On the morning I flew to the Isle of Man the front page headlines in the Sunday Times was about antisemitism in the Labour Party.’

He described antisemitism as ’a long-standing and virulent form of racism’ with a rise in the offence indicating wider issues in society, such as ’populism, extremism, divisiveness and fear’.

’There is a determination to ensure that antisemitism is countered in all its forms wherever it rears its head. It is clear to me that the Jewish residents of the island have many friends and feel very much part of and contribute to the wider community,’ he said.

Rosalind Dobson, chair of the island branch, said: ’Steven’s excellent talk for the IOM Friends of Israel was very well received by an extremely appreciative audience. As far as antisemitism on our island is concerned, I have never found it blatant, but it exists here as it does everywhere.

’It can be obvious or manifest in snide or so-called humorous comments, and in unjustified, negative comments about Israel. Positive, fair criticism of the state, is, of course, always welcome, as is mutually respectful discussion, in the same way it would be for any democracy.’