URL: https://watford.moderngov.co.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=7476

Decision Maker: Council

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose:

Content: The following motion had been proposed by Councillor Asif Khan and seconded by Councillor Nigel Bell:   “This Council notes that:   ·       Since 28 February 2026, a major international conflict has escalated following joint military strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran, which has led to a widening regional war and retaliatory attacks across the Middle East. ·       The conflict has caused loss of life, regional instability and growing international concern about further escalation. ·       Events of this scale can have a profound emotional impact on communities here in the United Kingdom, including residents in Watford who may have family, cultural or faith connections to the region. ·       Global conflicts can sometimes create tension or misunderstanding locally if not addressed through calm leadership and strong community relationships. ·       Watford is a town built on diversity, mutual respect and strong inter-faith cooperation, where people of many backgrounds and beliefs live side by side.   This Council believes that:   ·       Watford’s diversity is one of the town’s greatest strengths and must always be protected and celebrated. ·       International conflicts must never be allowed to divide communities in Watford or Hertfordshire. ·       At times of global tension, civic leaders, faith leaders and community organisations have an important responsibility to promote unity, understanding and calm. ·       The strength of Watford lies in its long tradition of neighbourliness, respect and cooperation between different communities.   This Council resolves to:   ·       Reaffirm that Watford is a welcoming, inclusive and united town for people of all faiths, backgrounds and cultures. ·       Work with local faith leaders, community groups, Hertfordshire Constabulary and voluntary organisations to promote dialogue, understanding and community cohesion. ·       Encourage and support interfaith initiatives and community events that bring residents together during periods of global tension. ·       Send a clear message that hatred, racism, antisemitism, Islamophobia and all forms of prejudice have no place in Watford. ·       Stand alongside community leaders across Watford and Hertfordshire in promoting peace, respect and unity.   This Council further affirms that, whatever events unfold internationally, the people and leaders of Watford will remain united in protecting the harmony, safety and cohesion of our town.”   There were no amendments.   Members debated the motion.   On being put to Council the motion was agreed.   Resolved –   This Council notes that:   ·       Since 28 February 2026, a major international conflict has escalated following joint military strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran, which has led to a widening regional war and retaliatory attacks across the Middle East. ·       The conflict has caused loss of life, regional instability and growing international concern about further escalation. ·       Events of this scale can have a profound emotional impact on communities here in the United Kingdom, including residents in Watford who may have family, cultural or faith connections to the region. ·       Global conflicts can sometimes create tension or misunderstanding locally if not addressed through calm leadership and strong community relationships. ·       Watford is a town built on diversity, mutual respect and strong inter-faith cooperation, where people of many backgrounds and beliefs live side by side.   This Council believes that:   ·       Watford’s diversity is one of the town’s greatest strengths and must always be protected and celebrated. ·       International conflicts must never be allowed to divide communities in Watford or Hertfordshire. ·       At times of global tension, civic leaders, faith leaders and community organisations have an important responsibility to promote unity, understanding and calm. ·       The strength of Watford lies in its long tradition of neighbourliness, respect and cooperation between different communities.   This Council resolves to:   ·       Reaffirm that Watford is a welcoming, inclusive and united town for people of all faiths, backgrounds and cultures. ·       Work with local faith leaders, community groups, Hertfordshire Constabulary and voluntary organisations to promote dialogue, understanding and community cohesion. ·       Encourage and support interfaith initiatives and community events that bring residents together during periods of global tension. ·       Send a clear message that hatred, racism, antisemitism, Islamophobia and all forms of prejudice have no place in Watford. ·       Stand alongside community leaders across Watford and Hertfordshire in promoting peace, respect and unity.   This Council further affirms that, whatever events unfold internationally, the people and leaders of Watford will remain united in protecting the harmony, safety and cohesion of our town.  

Date of Decision: March 17, 2026