Ergin Erbil has issued a statement on the anniversary of the terror attacks by Hamas which sparked escalating conflicts in the region

The leader of Enfield Council has issued a statement on the anniversary of the 7th October terror attacks in Israel expressing his “concern on the escalating conflict in the Middle East and the humanitarian emergency in Gaza”.

Ergin Erbil, who took charge at Enfield Civic Centre, expressed his sympathies with everyone in Enfield impacted by the conflict in the region, which has recently expanded into Lebanon and has also seen Iran firing missiles into Israel.

Cllr Erbil said: “On the anniversary of the horrific acts of terrorism on 7th October, we reflect with deep sadness and concern on the escalating conflict in the Middle East and the humanitarian emergency in Gaza. I remain deeply concerned about the ongoing conflict. Our hearts go out to all Israelis and Palestinians, and those in the region who continue to be impacted.

“In Enfield, I extend my sympathies to residents with family and friends who are also impacted. I appreciate that this continues to be a frightening and unsettling time. I want residents to know we are here for them and that help and support are available locally if they need it.

“The attack on Israel was an appalling act of terrorism, and my thoughts and prayers remain with all those affected. Our hearts also go out to innocent Palestinians who have suffered immensely during this time.

“My colleagues and I meet regularly with the local police to ensure our residents feel safe, despite the troubling increase in reported hate crimes against both Jewish and Muslim communities in London.

“Enfield Council denounces hate crime in the strongest terms; we will not allow our communities to be divided by intolerance or prejudice. We continue to engage in open dialogue between faith leaders, community groups and residents.

“We must choose compassion over division. I have drawn hope from our borough’s spirit of unity, seeing Muslim and Jewish communities come together to build bridges. Enfield is made up of many communities and this diversity is one of our key strengths.

“We are proud to be a borough of diversity and inclusion. As we move forward, I urge all residents to embody the values of empathy and humanity, to come together to ensure a safe, welcoming borough free from hate. We are at our strongest when we stand together united against hate.”

The council has also provided information for residents needing to report a hate crime, to seek advice from community organisations, or anyone wishing to donate money to good causes working in the affected regions.

For more information:
Visit enfield.gov.uk/news-and-events/2024/10

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