London borough of Hackney has voted to begin the process of ending its 58-year twinning agreement with the Israeli city of Haifa. Hackney established the relationship with Haifa in September 1968, although council documents indicate that the link has remained inactive since 2019. The decision fulfils a manifesto commitment made by the Green Party, which secured 42 of Hackney’s 57 council seats in the May local elections. Mayor of Hackney Zoë Garbett will also write to the mayor of Haifa outlining the council’s concerns and inviting a response. Palestinian residents and activists told the publication that the city’s celebrated coexistence often depends on remaining silent about Israel’s treatment of Palestinians.