Israel Deputy FM Calls UK Green Party Leader Zack Polanski an Extremist

Israel’s Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel has described Zack Polanski, the leader of the UK Green Party, as an extremist following his social media activity regarding the arrest of a terror attack suspect in London.

The diplomatic friction emerged after Polanski shared criticism of police conduct during the apprehension of a suspect involved in an attack in Golders Green, a predominantly Jewish area of North London. Haskel accused the Green Party leader, who is Jewish, of choosing to legitimize violence against Jews through his actions.

The accusations from the Israeli government come at a time of heightened scrutiny regarding antisemitism in the United Kingdom and the rhetoric used by political leaders. According to reports, Haskel alleged that Polanski was fueling antisemitism in Britain by criticizing the police as they subdued the suspect.

The incident has sparked a wider debate about the Green Party’s stance on security and its relationship with Jewish communities. Polanski’s criticism of the police operation has been characterized by critics as dangerous rhetoric, with some calling for the party leader to apologize for the nature of the posts.

The controversy coincides with a period of political anticipation in the UK, as the Green Party is expected to make significant gains in the local elections scheduled for May 7, 2026.