Jewish Students at University College London Say Anti-Antisemitism Program Is Being Handed to a Figure Linked to a Pro-Hamas Group

University College London in Britain is planning to transfer its department for combating antisemitism to a senior administrator whose name has been linked to a pro-Hamas organization. That is according to a report aired today (Tuesday) on Channel 14 News. The university’s decision is stirring anger among Jewish students.

The university announced that it is ending the employment of Anthony Orkin, who has served as the "Antisemitism Programme Manager" since 2022. His role included supporting Jewish students who experienced antisemitism, guiding them through the complaints process, and providing training across campus. Students described Orkin as the "only expert students could rely on."

According to the report, which relies on student testimony, Orkin’s authority will be transferred to the university’s "Equality, Diversity and Inclusion" department. That department is headed by Adil Khan, whose name was previously linked to a charity called "Save One Life UK." The organization was investigated by the UK Charity Commission after allegations surfaced that it had cooperated with Hamas in Gaza in order to distribute funds.

A UCL spokesperson said in response that the university is "strengthening its commitment to addressing antisemitism by embedding the issue across all institutional activity. The university plans to establish a new senior expert group and expand support for students and staff, while creating a new role of Director for Religion and Belief Affairs."