Full Breakdown
Controversy Surrounds Green Party Candidates in Newcastle Over Antisemitic Allegations
4/16/2026, 1:44:30 AM
Accusations of Antisemitism
The Green Party is facing significant scrutiny in Newcastle as several of its local election candidates have been accused of posting antisemitic content on social media. Opponents, including members of the Labour Party and the Liberal Democrats, have called for the party to withdraw its endorsements of these candidates, labeling the posts as "horrendous" and indicative of a broader issue within the party.
Specific Allegations Against Candidates
Dr. Philip Brookes, a Green candidate for the Manor Park ward, has come under fire for sharing a post that referred to Israel as “just a bunch of Polish, Russian, Hungarian terrorists killing Palestinian people for 76 years.” His Facebook account also featured an image depicting an Israeli flag being torn to reveal a Nazi swastika. Additionally, he commented that it “takes serious effort not to be a tiny bit antisemitic” regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Another candidate, Mohammed Suleman, has faced backlash for reposting a TikTok video that claims Jewish prisoners of war were involved in the burial of Soviet prisoners under Nazi orders during World War II. This video includes derogatory descriptions of Jews, which have further fueled accusations of antisemitism against him.
Party Response and Position
In response to the allegations, the Green Party has stated that some of the posts in question have been deleted, asserting that they do not reflect the party's values, which emphasize anti-racism and support for working-class communities. However, the party has not rescinded its endorsements of the candidates involved.
Zack Polanski, the leader of the Green Party, defended the party's position, stating that the criticisms from the Labour Party are a distraction from their own failures to address pressing local issues, such as the cost-of-living crisis. He emphasized the importance of distinguishing between vocal criticisms of Israel and antisemitism.
Criticism from Opponents
Labour Party chair Anna Turley condemned the Green Party for allowing candidates with such views to run in the elections, stating that there is "no place in Newcastle for politics of hatred." The Liberal Democrats echoed this sentiment, urging the Green Party to clarify how it vetted its candidates and to take decisive action against those who do not align with its stated values.
Conclusion
As the local elections approach on May 7, the Green Party's handling of these allegations may significantly impact its electoral prospects in Newcastle. The controversy highlights ongoing tensions surrounding discussions of Israel and antisemitism, raising questions about the responsibilities of political parties in vetting their candidates and addressing public concerns.
Verbatim Quotes
- “There is no place in Newcastle for politics of hatred, and the Green Party should be urgently withdrawing support for all of these candidates and make it clear that these views are abhorrent.” — Anna Turley, Labour Party Chair
- “ A spokesperson for the Greens told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “Newcastle Labour’s desperate attempts to smear the Green Party are a futile attempt to distract from their failure to deliver any solutions for issues coming up on the doorstep, such as rising bills.” — Zack Polanski, Leader of the Green Party
