"This is a hugely sensitive issue but in light of escalating tensions from the conflict in the Middle East installing the candelabra now will not be without risk to the council, our partners, our staff and local residents," it added while warning about “possible vandalism or other action against the installation."

The council stated they are concerned because of "an increase in the number of hate crimes” in the area they preside over specifically “both towards the Jewish and Muslim community."

"After consulting with the leader of the council we believe it would be unwise to move forward with the installation which could risk further inflaming tensions," it concluded, also adding that the council did fly an Israeli flag in "solidarity" after the October 7 Hamas attack.

It also states it rejected claims of "antisemitism" from people it claims are "politicising" the decision.

Instead of the chanukiah, the council recommended "a temporary installation" and an "event to celebrate the beginning of Chanukah."

Local Romford MP Andrew Rosindell wrote to the council over his "grave concern" that it was halting the Chanukah celebration.

"Should this be true it would be a grave insult to Jewish communities in Romford," he stated.

He said in his letter sent last week that "this is a matter of religious freedom and has nothing to do with current affairs in the Middle East."

"It is imperative that we collectively show support for the British Jewish community." He concluded it would be "a grave disappointment" to see menorahs erected "all over Essex, Redbridge and North London with Havering being the outlier."

Rosindell stated to The Independent: