The mayor of Bath has resigned after sharing social media posts suggesting that last week’s arson attack on Hatzola ambulances in Golders Green was an “Israeli false flag”.
Dr Bharat Pankhania said after sharing the posts that he is “learning very fast the consequences” of his actions.
Pankhania was suspended from his post as the Liberal Democrat councillor for Banes ward in Bath and North East Somerset Council, as confirmed by the party shortly after the posts were shared.
He later resigned from the party and now sits as an independent in the council representing Banes.
His resignation as mayor comes just two months before his term was due to expire. Pankhania apologised after sharing the posts, saying that they "have never aligned" with his values and beliefs.
"I am incredibly apologetic that I have not lived up to the standards I set myself," he said. "I have, of course, deleted them and I wish to apologise unreservedly."
“I am, of course, very upset with myself. There is no way, no chance I have any anti-sentiment to any religious or ethnic groups. I have always wanted one harmonious society.
“I am learning very fast the consequences of my actions, I am heartbroken... I don't harbour any extremist or even mildly so views.”
A spokesperson from the Banes Liberal Democrat council group confirmed on Monday evening that Pankhania's resignation had been accepted and said that it showed he was taking "clear personal responsibility for his actions”.
“We reject antisemitism in all its forms and stand in solidarity with the Jewish community following the appalling arson attack earlier this week.”
They added: "As a group and as a party, we reject discrimination wherever it occurs and reiterate our stance against antisemitism."
The council has said it is investigating complaints about Pankhania, saying: "All councillors are expected to follow a code of conduct.”
To get more news, click here to sign up for our free daily newsletter.