Arson Attack on Jewish Community Ambulances Investigated for Possible Iranian Links

In the early hours of Monday, four ambulances belonging to the Jewish community service Hatzola were set ablaze in Golders Green, London. The Metropolitan Police are investigating the incident as an antisemitic hate crime, although they have not classified it as terrorism. The attack occurred around 1:45 AM, resulting in explosions from gas canisters stored in the vehicles, which led to nearby homes being evacuated. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

The Independent

Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley indicated that the investigation is exploring potential links to an Islamist group, Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia, which has claimed responsibility for the attack via a video posted on Telegram. Rowley noted that while the rapid growth of Iranian state threats is concerning, it is premature to directly attribute this incident to the Iranian government. He emphasized that the attack targeted a volunteer ambulance service that serves all community members, stating, “An attack on Hatzola is not only an attack on the Jewish community but an attack on all of us.”

The Independent

Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams, overseeing local policing, confirmed that investigators are aware of the online claim but have yet to verify its authenticity. CCTV footage reportedly shows three individuals in hooded clothing pouring accelerant on the ambulances before igniting them.

The Independent

In response to the attack, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer condemned the incident as a “horrific antisemitic attack” and called for community solidarity. Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis described the targeting of the ambulance service as “particularly sickening.” Jewish leaders, including Michael Wegier, chief executive of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, expressed that the Jewish community in the UK feels increasingly unsafe compared to previous years.

The Independent

Following the incident, additional security measures are being implemented to protect Jewish communities. Rowley praised the “extraordinary speed and professionalism” of local volunteers and emergency services, which he credited with potentially saving lives during the attack.

The Independent

The attack has sparked significant concern within the Jewish community, with over 250 individuals attending a rally against antisemitism in Golders Green later that day. Protesters expressed their solidarity and opposition to hate crimes, waving Israeli flags and chanting slogans. Official statistics indicate that Jewish individuals experience the highest rate of religiously motivated hate crimes in England and Wales.

The Independent

The UK government has committed to funding replacements for the destroyed ambulances and providing immediate health support to those affected by the incident.

The Independent

While the Metropolitan Police are investigating the potential Iranian links to the attack, there is currently no definitive evidence connecting the incident to the Iranian state. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are appealing for any witnesses or footage related to the arson.

The Independent

• “open image in gallery Four ambulances belonging to a charity in the north London suburb were damaged or destroyed ( Henry NICHOLLS / AFP via ) Sir Mark will say: “Britain’s Jewish community has in recent years been increasingly targeted by individuals, groups and hostile states, intent on spreading fear, hate and harm.” — Sir Mark Rowley, Metropolitan Police Commissioner

The Independent

• “An attack on Hatzola is not only an attack on the Jewish community but an attack on all of us.” — Sir Mark Rowley, Metropolitan Police Commissioner

The Independent

• “horrific antisemitic attack” — Sir Keir Starmer, Prime Minister

The Independent