King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust is facing a High Court challenge from vascular surgeon Dr Ranjeet Brar, who was suspended because of his his public criticism of Israel’s genocide in Gaza.
Dr Brar was suspended shortly after delivering a speech in which he condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza and criticised the policies of the Israeli, British and US governments. He contends that the IHRA definition was used to justify disciplinary action against him, turning lawful political expression into grounds for punishment.
The case forms part of a broader legal effort challenging the use of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism by public bodies; commonly used to silence criticism of Israel across the NHS and other public institutions.
Healthcare workers, academics and activists who express solidarity with Palestinians face censorship, disciplinary measures and threats to their careers under the guise of combating antisemitism.
The judicial review seeks clarification on how the definition can be lawfully applied, with campaigners warning that its continued use risks undermining freedom of expression and political debate within public institutions.
