Full Breakdown
Nazi Salutes Disrupt Green Party Rally in Hastings
5/2/2026, 3:35:29 AM
Disruption at Hastings Green Party Rally
On 30 April 2024, a Green Party rally in Hastings—held a week before local elections—was disrupted when men unfurled a Reform UK flag and a St George’s Cross, used a megaphone, and performed at least three Nazi salutes while Green Party leader Zack Polanski, a Jewish leader, addressed supporters. Polanski referenced a double stabbing in Golders Green. Stand Up To Racism posted video of disturbance. Sussex Police arrested a 62-year-old suspect on suspicion of racially aggravated public-order offence.
Timeline of the Incident
The 30 April rally was interrupted by Nazi salutes; police arrested the suspect that day, and local elections follow next week.
Official Statements & Responses
Sussex Police confirmed the arrest and asked for witnesses. The Green Party said it was appalled, reaffirmed its anti-antisemitism stance, and called for investigation.
Criticism & Opposition
Reform UK called the salute abhorrent and said the individual had no party affiliation, distancing the party. Stand Up To Racism posted footage and called for information, condemning the agitators.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Police disclosed only the suspect’s age, not his identity, and have not clarified any link between the flag-waving men and Reform UK; no motive released.
Why It Matters
The incident highlights concerns about antisemitic intimidation at events before elections, raising questions about security, party reputations, and law-enforcement capacity to address hate-motivated disorder.
Verbatim Quotes
"We are aware of a video circulating on social media in relation to an incident reported to have taken place at a political event in Hastings on 30 April. Following swift enquiries, a 62-year-old man from Hastings has been arrested on suspicion of a racially aggravated Section 4A public order offence of causing intentional harassment, alarm or distress. He remains in custody at this time." — Sussex Police spokesperson
"The Green Party is appalled that our leader, Zack Polanski, was harassed by a group of agitators who performed Nazi salutes. Zack is the only Jewish leader of a political party in this country, and he faces this kind of antisemitic abuse far too often. The Green Party stands firmly against antisemitism and in solidarity with Jewish communities. In the wake of the horrific attacks in Golders Green, we are clear that Jewish people must be protected." — Green Party spokesperson
"The two men holding the Reform flag were not responsible for the abhorrent action. The individual responsible was a nearby man with no connection to the party in any capacity." — Reform UK
"When they come for one of us, I say this as a Jewish man, they come for all of us, and we will stand together and we will not be divided." — Zack Polanski, Green Party leader
What's Next
Police are investigating and have asked the public for information. The Green Party will conduct an internal review; local elections will proceed as scheduled.
