Story perspectives

Columnist Faces Backlash for Justifying Bakery Vandalism

3/17/2026

Center

Liew Justifies Vandalism

The Guardian columnist Jonathan Liew sparked controversy in the British Jewish community by rationalizing vandalism at Gail's, an Israeli-founded bakery in London.
The bakery was targeted with pro-Palestinian slogans after opening near a Palestinian-owned cafe.
Critics, including Jewish leaders, accused Liew of justifying the attack because of Gail's Israeli heritage.
Liew has not addressed the backlash but continues to promote the article on social media.

Left

Ghazali Attacks Temple

Ayman Ghazali, a Lebanese-American, attacked Temple Israel in Michigan on March 12, 2026, in retaliation for the Israeli military killing four relatives in Lebanon, including two children.
Jewish and Arab leaders condemned the attack and urged solidarity amid the ongoing conflict.
Community leaders said only minor injuries occurred.
The attack sparked discussions on conflating Jewish identity with Israeli state actions and potential further violence.

History

Historical Context

The vandalism of Jewish-owned businesses in 2023, reminiscent of the 1938 Kristallnacht, highlights a troubling resurgence of antisemitism. During Kristallnacht, over 7,500 Jewish businesses were attacked in Germany, reflecting deep-rooted prejudice. The recent incidents, exacerbated by tensions over Israeli policies, underscore the ongoing conflation of Jewish identity with state actions, raising alarms about rising antisemitism and potential violence against Jewish communities worldwide.

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Liew Justifies Vandalism

The Guardian columnist Jonathan Liew sparked controversy in the British Jewish community by rationalizing vandalism at Gail's, an Israeli-founded bakery in London.
The bakery was targeted with pro-Palestinian slogans after opening near a Palestinian-owned cafe.
Critics, including Jewish leaders, accused Liew of justifying the attack because of Gail's Israeli heritage.
Liew has not addressed the backlash but continues to promote the article on social media.

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