The chief rabbi, Ephraim Mirvis, has condemned a 'sustained campaign of violence and intimidation' against the Jewish community following an attempted arson attack on Kenton United Synagogue in Harrow, north-west London, on Saturday night. The incident caused minor smoke damage but no injuries.
This attack follows two others in north London within the past week: an arson in Finchley on Wednesday and an attempted arson at the former Jewish Futures building in Hendon on Friday. The Community Security Trust confirmed no significant structural damage or casualties.
Police have cordoned off the area, with forensics and fire investigation dogs at the scene. Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans stated that Counter Terrorism Policing is investigating whether the attacks are linked to Iranian proxies, as a group called Ashab al-Yamin has claimed responsibility online for similar incidents across Europe.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed horror at the attacks, vowing increased policing and justice for perpetrators. Saul Taylor, president of Kenton United Synagogue, urged Starmer to declare an 'epidemic of anti-Jewish hate', noting that while police response has been good, more prevention is needed.
