Arson Attack Attempt at London Synagogue Aimed to Intimidate Jewish Community
Cantor Zoe Jacobs, the senior clergy at Finchley Reform Synagogue in north London, has declared that an attempted arson attack on the place of worship was "clearly an attempt to intimidate the British Jewish community". The incident occurred shortly after midnight on Wednesday, when two individuals hurled bottles believed to contain petrol at the synagogue, though neither ignited. A brick was also thrown, but no damage or injuries were reported.
Police Investigation and Community Response
The Metropolitan Police are actively hunting for two suspects seen wearing dark clothing and balaclavas, treating the event as an attempted hate crime. Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams emphasized the seriousness of the incident, noting increased concern following a similar arson attack in Golders Green last month. He assured the community of a heightened police presence and urged witnesses with CCTV or dashcam footage to come forward.
Cantor Jacobs vowed that the community "will not be deterred by these cowardly acts" and instead will focus on building bridges across the wider Barnet area. The incident is being investigated by detectives from the Met’s North West Command Unit, with support from Counter Terrorism Policing London, though no arrests have been made yet.
Political and Community Reactions
Local MP Sarah Sackman issued a written statement, distributed by volunteers near the synagogue, expressing concern but reassuring residents of a strong police response. She highlighted Finchley as a tolerant community where neighbors support each other, noting the synagogue's gratitude for the widespread support received.
Rabbi Charley Baginsky and Rabbi Josh Levy, co-leaders of the Movement for Progressive Judaism, linked the attack to a wider rise in antisemitism affecting Jewish communities nationwide. They pledged continued collaboration with police and the Community Security Trust to enhance safety and resilience.
Finchley Church End councillor Josh Mastin-Lee condemned the attack on social media, calling the synagogue a "pillar of the community that deserves far better" and demanding an end to such assaults. Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan also responded, thanking the Met Police for their swift action and confirming the incident is being treated as an antisemitic hate crime.
Forensic Evidence and Appeal for Information
At the scene, forensic officers inspected a green-topped wine bottle with a blue rag, identified as a bottle of I Heart Sauvignon Blanc, found outside the synagogue behind a police cordon. Authorities are appealing for public assistance, with reference number 1685/15APR, and encourage tips via Crimestoppers to aid in identifying the suspects.
