Michael Gove Criticizes University Protests as 'Antisemitism Repurposed for Instagram Age'

Michael Gove has condemned pro-Palestine university protests in the UK, calling them 'antisemitism repurposed for the Instagram age.' He cited specific incidents at universities, urging them to adopt the IHRA definition of antisemitism and take disciplinary action against agitators. Gove's remarks have received mixed reactions from various groups.

Communities Secretary Michael Gove has condemned pro-Palestine university protests in the UK, labeling them 'antisemitism repurposed for the Instagram age.' In a speech at the JW3 community center in north London, Gove accused British universities of fostering an environment filled with 'anti-Israel rhetoric and agitation' that intimidates Jewish students.

Specific incidents cited include graffiti at Leeds University accusing staff of funding 'an effing genocide,' posters at Bristol University claiming media and politicians were 'Zionist funded,' and a proclamation at SOAS University that its student union had a duty to uphold BDS (boycott, divestment, and sanctions).

Gove urged universities to adopt the IHRA definition of antisemitism and take disciplinary action against such agitators.

He also emphasized the need to counter antisemitism, calling it a 'canary in the mine' for democracy's health.

Gove's statement elicited mixed reactions, with support from the Union of Jewish Students and criticism from the Palestine Solidarity Campaign.