Counter-terrorism investigators are examining three separate arson attacks in London targeting an Iranian dissident media outlet, a synagogue, and Jewish charity ambulances. The latest incident occurred on Wednesday at 8:30pm outside the offices of Iran International, a Persian-language news channel critical of the Tehran regime, in Wembley. An 'ignited container' was thrown at a car park but the fire went out immediately. Police arrested a 16-year-old boy and two men aged 19 and 21 on suspicion of arson endangering life.
Earlier on Wednesday, an attempted firebomb attack targeted Finchley Reform Synagogue, leading to the arrest of a 47-year-old woman and a 46-year-old man who remain in custody. Last month, an arson attack on four ambulances in Golders Green run by a Jewish charity resulted in three men being charged and one on bail. On Thursday, two 18-year-olds were arrested in east London in connection with that attack—one for arson with intent to endanger life, the other for conspiracy to commit arson.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed all three incidents are being investigated by the counter-terrorism unit. Deputy Commissioner Matt Jukes warned against carrying out attacks for foreign states, stating, 'For the people who think you can make quick and easy money by committing crimes for others, we will show that they are fools.' He cited the case of Dylan Earl, who is serving 17 years for a Russian-ordered arson attack in London.
When asked if Iran could be behind the attacks, Jukes said it was too early to conclude. The militant group Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia has claimed responsibility for the ambulance attack and suggested involvement in the synagogue attack. Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans noted that a fifth of counter-terror policing work currently focuses on 'hostile state activity'.
Iran International's editorial board said in a statement: 'At this stage, the motives and intentions of those involved have not been established, and we will not speculate while inquiries continue.' The attacks have not been officially declared terrorism but are being led by counter-terrorism specialists.
