London Mayor Sadiq Khan was forced to deny allegations that his administration deliberately removed or altered Israel's flag during the city's New Year's Day fireworks celebration, amid growing concerns about antisemitism in the British capital.
Thursday's fireworks display included a digital presentation of flags from around the world projected onto the London Eye, the city's iconic Ferris wheel. Both Israeli and Palestinian flags appeared in the brief sequence, but critics questioned whether the Star of David had been modified or censored.
Khan's denial comes as his leadership faces intense scrutiny over London's deteriorating safety conditions, particularly for Jewish residents. Social media users have voiced sharp criticism of the mayor's handling of multiple crises plaguing the city.
"'Diversity'? Jews don't feel safe walking into central London almost every day because of 2+ years of vile anti Israel protests? I don't know what London Sadiq Khan is talking about but it's not the London of today,"
wrote one concerned citizen on social media, highlighting the disconnect between Khan's public messaging and the reality facing Jewish Londoners.
The controversy over the fireworks display has reignited broader frustrations with Khan's administration. Critics point to his handling of public safety, transportation policies, and what they see as his failure to address serious crime issues.
"Sadiq Khan has banned anyone going to Primrose Hill. Charges all of you to drive anywhere near the M25 and denies any r*pe grooming gangs existing. Horrible man,"
another user posted, referencing multiple grievances against the mayor's policies.
Additional social media criticism highlighted concerns about crime statistics under Khan's tenure: "Khans is lying, the high crime rate is the worst it has ever been. He denies the rape gangs are in London. If we complain we are racist or right wing."
The flag controversy underscores deeper tensions in London, where Jewish communities have reported feeling increasingly unsafe amid persistent anti-Israel demonstrations. Khan's administration has faced mounting pressure to better protect Jewish residents and address what critics describe as selective enforcement of public safety measures.
While Khan maintains that no political messaging influenced the fireworks display, the incident reflects broader questions about his leadership during a period of heightened social tensions in one of Europe's most diverse cities.