Increased Security At Synagogue
RECENT VISITORS TO the synagogue on Richmond Road, Jericho, have been startled by increased security measures.
Students going to worship at the synagogue have been subjected to searches of their bags, and there is now a complete ban on mobile phones. Amazingly, it is not the fear of increased crime in the local area that has prompted these measures. Instead, the recent events in the Middle East have prompted concerns that the synagogue may be at risk.
Oxford may seem a far cry from the streets of Jerusalem, yet a representative of the synagogue insists that such precautionary measures are necessary. Interest in the Middle East runs high in the city, a vigil having taken place in the city centre earlier in the week.
Although the action taking place has been peaceful so far, many in the Jewish community wish to ensure that there is no chance of any violence developing.
A source at the synagogue admitted to the Oxford Student that the increasing tension in the Middle East was worrying the Jewish community in Oxford, and to that end "people have become more vigilant."
19th Oct 2000