Arson Attack on Jewish Ambulances in London Treated as Antisemitic Hate Crime
Four ambulances belonging to the Jewish community ambulance service Hatzola Northwest were deliberately set on fire in Golders Green, north London, in an incident that police are treating as an antisemitic hate crime. The attack occurred in the early hours of Monday morning, causing significant damage to the vehicles and nearby property.
Police Response and Investigation
The Metropolitan Police were called to Highfield Road at approximately 1:45 am after reports of a fire. Officers confirmed that the incident is being investigated as an antisemitic hate crime, with no injuries reported initially. Police Superintendent Sarah Jackson stated that three suspects are being sought, and CCTV footage is being examined. Additional patrols have been deployed in the area to provide reassurance to the community.
Community and Political Reactions
Prime Minister Keir Starmer denounced the attack as a deeply shocking antisemitic arson, emphasizing that antisemitism has no place in society. London Mayor Sadiq Khan called it a cowardly act and urged anyone with information to come forward. Mark Gardner from the Community Security Trust highlighted that this attack not only targets the Jewish community but also represents an assault on British society as a whole.
Impact and Details of the Incident
The London Fire Brigade dispatched six fire engines and around 40 firefighters to the scene. The fire caused oxygen cylinders on the ambulances to explode, breaking windows in an adjacent block of flats. The Shomrim neighbourhood watch group noted that the explosions were due to oxygen tanks, not bombs, and advised the public to avoid the area. Despite the damage, the Hatzola facility remains operational.
Broader Context and Statements
Health Secretary Wes Streeting described the attack as sickening, while Councillor Dean Cohen expressed concern over its location near a synagogue, heightening fears in the community. The Community Security Trust drew comparisons to similar antisemitic arson attacks in Belgium and the Netherlands, underscoring the global nature of such hate crimes.
