Zack Polanski faces backlash after calling Zionism racism at London hustings

Green Party leader Zack Polanski faced heckling and booing at a Jewish community hustings in Holborn and St Pancras. During the event, Polanski declared himself an ‘anti-Zionist’ and argued that Zionism, in practice, constitutes a form of racism due to the ‘displacement and genocide of the Palestinian people.’

Polanski, who is Jewish, stated that accusing those who criticize Israel’s military actions in Gaza of antisemitism can make Jewish people less safe. His comments occurred ahead of the Holborn and St Pancras by-election, where he is a candidate.

The remarks coincide with internal Green Party discussions regarding a potential policy shift. Members are expected to vote on a motion to officially declare Zionism as a form of racism. Some party officials have expressed concern that such a policy could alienate the UK Jewish community and cause internal party splits.