A new friends of Israel group has been launched for local councillors.

It was announced at a reception at the Local Government Association’s annual conference this week which saw over 1,400 council chief executives, leaders and councillors gather in Harrogate.

The group will establish links between British and Israeli authorities and educate British councillors about Israel. It will also combat boycott campaigns.

Luke Akehurst, director of We Believe In Israel, said: “Local councils are facing increasing pressure from anti-Israel campaigners seeking to import the Middle East conflict into our town halls with boycott motions aimed at companies with Israeli links, and gesture politics like flying of Palestinian flags.”

He added: “The vast majority of councillors want Israel treated fairly and reject the divisive politics of boycotting. This network will ensure we can stand up to anti-Israel activity in councils and promote a positive role for UK local authorities in building bridges with and between Israel and the Palestinians.’

Mr Akehurst said the new group would be backed by over 450 councillors from 200 authorities.

Speakers who joined Mr Akehurst at the reception included Claudia Mendoza, the head of policy and research at the Jewish Leadership Council, and Marie Van Der Zyl, Board of Deputies vice president.