A synagogue in northwest London was targeted in an attempted arson attack overnight, the latest in a series of antisemitic incidents across the UK.
Another Synagogue Arson Attempt in London
A synagogue in northwest London was the target of an attempted arson attack on the night of Saturday to Sunday, according to the BBC. This is the latest incident directed at the Jewish community in Great Britain this week.
Premier Keir Starmer stated on X that he was “shocked” by the antisemitic attacks in the country.
Minor Damage Reported
According to the Community Security Trust (CST), which provides protection for the Jewish community, the Kenton United synagogue building sustained minor damage in one room. Police and the fire department were called to the scene.
No injuries were reported, but smoke damage was confirmed.
Increasing Attacks on Jewish Sites in the UK
This is the third attack on a Jewish site in the capital in recent days, according to Chief Rabbi of Great Britain Ephraim Mirvis in a Facebook post.
Mirvis assessed that attacks on the Jewish community are “gaining momentum.”
Political Condemnation
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer wrote on X that he was “shocked by the recent antisemitic arson attempts in north London.”
He emphasized, “This is abhorrent and will not be tolerated. Attacks on our Jewish community are attacks on Britain.”
Recent Incidents in London
On Friday evening, a building in London previously used by a Jewish organization was set on fire. On Wednesday, a synagogue in the nearby Finchley district was also targeted in an arson attack.
Investigation Near Israeli Embassy
On Friday, British police also reported investigating an incident near the Israeli embassy after a group posted online about using drones with “dangerous substances.”
Attacks Beyond London
At the end of March, four ambulances belonging to the Jewish community were set on fire in the Golders Green district, where approximately half of the residents are Jewish.
Iran-Linked Group Claims Responsibility
A previously unknown group linked to Iran, Harakat Aszab al-Jamin al-Islamijja, has claimed responsibility for all attacks preceding the incident in Kenton. These attacks typically involved arson or the use of small improvised explosive devices, carried out at night, with information then disseminated mainly on social media platforms associated with pro-Iranian circles.
Broader European Trend
Jewish sites in other countries, including Belgium and the Netherlands, have also been targeted in recent weeks, including synagogues, restaurants, and a Jewish school.
Possible Iranian Hybrid Operation
According to the International Centre for Counter-Terrorism in The Hague (ICCT), the series of attacks on Jewish targets in Europe may indicate an Iran-inspired hybrid operation. (PAP)
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