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United Kingdom, England: North London blaze targeting Jewish charity ambulances prompts counter-terror probe amid rising antisemitism concerns nationwide
An arson attack that destroyed four ambulances belonging to a Jewish volunteer emergency service in north London is being treated as a suspected antisemitic hate crime, with counter-terrorism officers now leading the investigation, authorities confirmed on Monday.
The incident took place in the early hours in Golders Green, a district known for its large Jewish population. Emergency services responded after multiple calls reported explosions and fire engulfing the vehicles stationed on Highfield Road.
The ambulances were operated by Hatzola, a volunteer-led charity providing free emergency medical response services. The organisation has been serving the local community for decades, responding to urgent medical situations regardless of faith or background.
According to the Metropolitan Police, the fire is being treated as a hate crime, with investigators exploring possible links to extremist activity. Although no arrests have yet been made, authorities are reviewing extensive CCTV footage that appears to show three suspects setting the vehicles alight.
The footage reportedly shows individuals dressed in dark clothing pouring an accelerant over the ambulances before igniting the fire and fleeing the scene. Several explosions followed, believed to have been caused by gas canisters stored inside the emergency vehicles.
Metropolitan Police Commissioner Mark Rowley said investigators were pursuing multiple lines of inquiry, including whether the attack could be linked to actors with potential Iranian state connections. However, he cautioned that it was too early to draw definitive conclusions.
Rowley noted growing concern about the “rapid increase in Iranian state threats” within the United Kingdom in recent years, while emphasising that the incident has not been officially classified as terrorism at this stage.
The attack has sent shockwaves through the local community, with residents describing scenes of panic as explosions shattered windows in nearby homes. The London Fire Brigade confirmed it received dozens of emergency calls and dispatched crews shortly after 1:40 a.m.
Firefighters managed to bring the blaze under control within two hours, preventing further damage. Around 30 residents were temporarily evacuated and moved to a nearby shelter, though no injuries were reported.
One resident recounted fleeing her home barefoot with her children after hearing loud blasts. “It was terrifying,” she said. “We didn’t know what was happening, only that we had to get out immediately.”
Authorities later confirmed that the explosions were caused by pressurised cylinders inside the ambulances reacting to the intense heat. Nearby residential buildings sustained minor structural damage, including broken windows.
An online claim of responsibility has surfaced from an Iran-aligned group, though police have not verified its authenticity. Investigators are continuing to assess whether the claim is credible or opportunistic.
The UK Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, addressed Parliament, condemning the attack as a “wicked crime” and urging anyone with information to come forward. She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of Jewish communities.
“This comes at a time of rising antisemitism across our country,” Mahmood said. “We will do everything in our power to protect communities and bring those responsible to justice.”
Community leaders have expressed outrage at the targeting of a service dedicated to saving lives. Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis described the attack as “particularly sickening,” noting that Hatzola volunteers serve both Jewish and non-Jewish residents alike.
Local officials echoed these concerns, with councillors highlighting the proximity of the attack to synagogues and community centres. Some residents said the incident reflects a broader climate of fear amid escalating global tensions.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan called the attack a “dark day for London,” stressing that targeting individuals based on their faith is unacceptable. He urged solidarity and support for the Jewish community.
In response to the incident, police have increased patrols in the area and deployed additional officers to safeguard Jewish institutions. Visible armed patrols are expected to remain in place in the coming days, particularly as the community prepares for upcoming religious observances.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed that the government will fund the replacement of the destroyed ambulances. He described antisemitism as an “abhorrent hatred” that has no place in modern society.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting added that the London Ambulance Service would provide additional support to ensure emergency response capabilities are not disrupted.
Meanwhile, public support has surged, with over £1 million raised through crowdfunding efforts to help rebuild the Hatzola fleet. Community groups and charities have rallied together, organising events and demonstrations condemning antisemitism.
The attack comes amid a reported rise in antisemitic incidents in the UK following the 2023 conflict between Israel and Hamas. Security organisations have warned of increasing hostility toward Jewish communities across Europe.
Police have urged the public to submit any relevant footage or information through a dedicated online portal. Investigators say community cooperation will be crucial in identifying and apprehending those responsible.
As the inquiry continues, authorities are balancing the need for swift justice with caution against premature conclusions. For many residents, however, the incident has already left a lasting impact.
“This wasn’t just an attack on vehicles,” one community member said. “It was an attack on people, on safety, and on the values we all share.”
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members