Police have formally declared the stabbing of two Jewish men in Golders Green, north London, a terrorist incident. The attack, which occurred on Wednesday morning, left a 76-year-old and a 34-year-old man injured. They are being treated by Hatzola, a Jewish volunteer ambulance service.
A 45-year-old man was arrested at the scene after being subdued with a stun gun. He is suspected of attempted murder. Reports indicate the suspect had previously failed a driving test, though the relevance to the attack is unclear. He is described as having a history of serious violence and mental health issues.
Laurence Taylor, head of counter-terrorism policing, confirmed the declaration, stating that one line of inquiry is whether the attack deliberately targeted the Jewish community. The incident follows a series of arson attacks on Jewish sites in north London, including two in Golders Green.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer chaired a Cobra meeting and condemned the 'appalling antisemitic attack'. He announced plans to meet criminal justice agencies on Thursday to ensure swift justice. Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis called for meaningful action, saying words of condemnation are no longer enough.
Political leaders across the spectrum condemned the attack. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch and local MP Sarah Sackman visited Golders Green, with Sackman stating that 'an attack on Britain’s Jews is an attack on Britain itself'. The Board of Deputies of British Jews also urged action.
