Israeli ambassador will not be ‘bullied’ by protest at LSE

THE Israeli ambassador has vowed not to be intimidated by “bullying and violence” after a protest at the London School of Economics, as her Palestinian counterpart pulled out of a debate.

Ministers intervened to defend Tzipi Hotovely, who faced a large crowd of student protesters on Tuesday evening after a talk on Middle East affairs.

Police had to hold back students outside the LSE campus venue demanding that she be “no-platformed”. Protesters accused her of having “advocated for settler colonialism” and engaged in Islamophobic rhetoric.

After the 90-minute debate, social media showed activists from the Palestinian and Israeli societies gathered at the exit, some jeering and attempting to lunge at the diplomat. Bodyguards ushered Ms Hotovely, 42, into a car.

Last night, Ms Hotovely, a former minister in Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, said: “The state of Israel will send its representatives to every stage.

“I will continue to share the Israeli story and hold open dialogue with all parts of British society.”

Some called for Ms Hotovely’s car windows to be smashed, which was criticised by LSE student leaders as “shocking and odious”.

A student group called LSE Class War had posted on Instagram telling followers that “whoever smashes the ambassador’s car window gets pints” and “we’re storming in”.

The group, which previously tried to ban private school students, added: “Let’s frighten her ... let’s make her shake.”

Husam Said Zomlot, head of the Palestinian mission to the UK, cancelled his speech at the LSE debate society scheduled for this evening, telling members he wished to return “when there is a healthier environment”.

Five senior ministers have waded into the row, including Liz Truss, the Foreign Secretary, while the Israeli embassy criticised “bullying” tactics by protesters.

Priti Patel, the Home Secretary, said she was “disgusted” and that Scotland Yard had her “full backing” to investigate.

Nadhim Zahawi invited Jewish students to meet him personally to “hear directly from them and offer any support I can”, while Jewish groups also reacted with fury.

“The Israeli ambassador was subjected to unacceptable intimidation,” said the Education Secretary.

“This is not disagreement or free speech – it is harassment and it will have deeply shaken Jewish students both at LSE and across the country.”