The National Jewish Assembly (NJA) strongly condemns the antisemitic comments made by Yasmin Ghaffar, a member of Save the Children’s public affairs team, in a TikTok video where she demanded recommendations for bagel shops in New York that were “actively pro-Palestinian” or “known to not be in support of that hell-hole place and Zionism.” She further declared she did not want to give her money to “genocidal maniacs.”
While Save the Children has apologised for the offensive video and placed Ghaffar on leave, the NJA calls for her immediate dismissal. Such antisemitic rhetoric is inexcusable, particularly from an individual representing a globally respected humanitarian organisation.
Gary Mond, NJA Chairman, stated: “This shocking video perpetuates antisemitic tropes and reflects a deeply concerning level of hatred. Save the Children’s apology is welcome, but more must be done. Placing Yasmin Ghaffar on leave is insufficient. The organisation must take a stand against antisemitism by terminating her employment immediately. Anything less risks damaging their credibility and trust within the Jewish community.”
The NJA commends Save the Children for addressing this issue quickly but stresses the need for systemic change in the charity sector, where such behaviours are too often ignored. Ghaffar’s comments, targeting Jewish businesses and questioning their “purity,” echo dangerous historical prejudices and highlight the urgent need for stronger safeguards against antisemitism in charitable organisations.
The NJA also joins the TaxPayers’ Alliance and others in urging greater accountability for charities receiving significant public funding—Save the Children has received over £250 million from the UK government in recent years. Publicly funded organisations must maintain the highest standards of conduct and inclusivity.
This incident also reflects a troubling trend of selective outrage within some charities, which often neglect to address atrocities committed against Jewish people, such as the ongoing suffering of Israeli hostages held by Hamas.
Antisemitism cannot and must not be tolerated. The NJA urges Save the Children to act decisively and dismiss Ghaffar to send a clear message that hate has no place in the humanitarian sector.
For media inquiries, contact: office@nja.org.uk
