Police have launched a full investigation following an arson attack at a north London synagogue, which authorities are treating as an antisemitic hate crime. The incident occurred overnight at Finchley Reform Synagogue in North Finchley, marking another alarming episode targeting the Jewish community in the area.
Recent Pattern of Attacks
This attack comes just weeks after a separate violent incident in nearby Golders Green on March 23, where four Hatzola ambulances were firebombed outside a synagogue. The firebombing caused gas canisters within the volunteer-led service vehicles to erupt dramatically. Three individuals—Hamza Iqbal, 20, Rehan Khan, 19, and a 17-year-old boy—have been charged with arson being reckless as to whether life would be endangered in connection with that earlier attack.
Political Response and Community Support
Sarah Sackman, MP for Finchley and Golders Green, described last night's incident as 'shocking' and emphasized that the Jewish community should be 'free to go about their lives without fear'. She stated: 'This morning, I became aware of an attempted arson attack at Finchley Reform Synagogue overnight. Thankfully, no one has been hurt. I have been at the synagogue, supporting local residents and community leaders.'
Sackman added: 'This shocking attempt to harm a local synagogue follows a series of alarming attacks on the Jewish community in Finchley and Golders Green. As your local MP, and as a member of the community, I refuse to allow this to become the 'new normal'. British Jews must be free to go about their lives without fear – whether taking their children to nursery or attending synagogue. We do not want to live behind ever higher walls.'
The MP also expressed gratitude towards the Community Security Trust (CST) and Metropolitan Police for their rapid and effective response, pledging to continue raising issues of antisemitism and security at the highest governmental levels to protect the community.
Synagogue's Stance and Resilience
Cantor Zöe Jacobs, speaking on behalf of the senior clergy of Finchley Reform Synagogue, highlighted the institution's role as a 'proud, progressive and welcoming space for all'. She noted that beyond Jewish services and celebrations, the synagogue hosts a nursery, a homeless shelter, and serves as a safe gathering place for refugees.
Jacobs confirmed: 'Last night, two men tried to attack our Synagogue and were unsuccessful. This is clearly an attempt to intimidate the British Jewish community, but we will not be deterred by these cowardly acts. Instead, we will continue to prioritise building bridges across the wider Barnet community.'
She further acknowledged the strong support from police, government, CST, and key partners during this challenging time, underscoring the community's resilience in the face of hatred.
