Man, 30, arrested after alleged assault on Israeli TV crew in Belfast

Police have said a man was charged with a number of offences. File picture: Niall Carson/PA

A 30-year-old man has been arrested amid reports an Israeli TV crew was assaulted in Belfast.

DUP leader Gavin Robinson said the allegations are “deeply concerning” and the motive behind the incident must be investigated by the PSNI.

In a statement, Mr Robinson said: “A cameraman was reportedly struck on the head with a glass after the crew’s nationality became known.

“There can be absolutely no justification for violence or intimidation directed towards journalists because they are Israeli or Jewish.

“The circumstances of this incident, including its motivation, must be fully investigated by the PSNI. I will be drawing this matter to the attention of the police.

“People are entitled to hold strong views about the Middle East but that can never become a licence for hatred or violence against Israeli or Jewish people.

“Northern Ireland knows only too well where hatred based on identity can lead.

“Belfast should be a city where journalists from anywhere in the world can work without fear of assault because of who they are or where they come from.

“If this attack was motivated by antisemitism, it must be recognised and condemned unequivocally.

“There must be no place for antisemitism or any form of intimidation on our streets.”

The PSNI said a man had been charged with a number of offences including assault occasioning actual bodily harm, common assault, assault on police and two counts of possession of an offensive weapon in a public place.

All charges will be reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service.