Woman Sparks Outrage by Cutting Yellow Ribbons at Memorial

A woman was filmed cutting down yellow ribbons from a memorial dedicated to Israeli hostages in Muswell Hill, London, on the morning of October 6, 2023. This act occurred on the eve of the second anniversary of the October 7 attacks by Hamas, which resulted in significant loss of life and the abduction of numerous individuals.

Witnesses reported the incident, stating that the unidentified woman claimed the memorial “condoned genocide.” Many attempted to intervene, with one local resident, Miranda Levy, expressing her outrage at the scene. Levy, a Jewish resident of north London for 20 years, described her feelings of anger and frustration as she confronted the woman.

She stated, “These ribbons are to remember people who have been kidnapped and kept underground. This is a memorial, a way of reminding the world that this is still going on.” Levy emphasized the importance of acknowledging the plight of hostages amid the ongoing conflict, noting that “there are people who are being held in the most horrendous conditions.”

In a video captured by Levy, the woman defended her actions, stating, “I’m not committing a crime. If I am, then call the police.” When labeled “disgusting” by onlookers, she retorted, “I think condoning a genocide is disgusting.” This exchange highlights the deep divisions of opinion surrounding the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The yellow ribbons symbolize hope for the safe return of loved ones who are missing or held captive. They have been used in Israel and beyond to express support for hostages and their families since 2023. As the anniversary of the October 7 attacks approached, the removal of these symbols sparked significant backlash among community members.

According to reports, a total of 251 people were taken hostage during the attacks, and approximately 1,200 individuals lost their lives. Currently, Hamas is believed to be holding 48 hostages, with only 20 of them thought to be alive.

Following the incident, community members took action to restore the ribbons, retying them to the railings around the garden on Fortis Green Road. Levy noted that another witness reported the woman to the police, stating, “To me, it was more immoral and insensitive than illegal.”

The Metropolitan Police have been approached for comment regarding the incident, and it remains to be seen what, if any, action will be taken. As tensions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict continue, the events in Muswell Hill serve as a poignant reminder of the ongoing humanitarian issues at stake.