A Golders Green Rabbi has called for educational programmes to tackle the root causes of antisemitism after two Jewish men were stabbed in north London this week. Rabbi Sam Fromson, 37, of Golders Green United Synagogue, described the attack as something the community had been expecting, given a recent rise in incidents.
Security Measures Already in Place
Rabbi Fromson revealed that Jewish schools across the UK have long implemented stringent security measures, including uniformed guards, airgate systems, and parent rotas. He noted that this has been a daily reality for young children attending Jewish schools for decades. 'It is a real tax, an extra cost of being Jewish in the UK, and much of it is privately funded,' he said.
The Attack and Suspect
Essa Suleiman, 45, is accused of attempting to kill Shloime Rand, 34, and Norman Shine, 76, in Golders Green on Wednesday. Mr Rand has been discharged from hospital, while Mr Shine remains in hospital with a neck injury. Suleiman also faces charges of attempting to murder a friend earlier that day. He appeared in Westminster Magistrates Court on Friday and was remanded in custody.
Education as a Solution
Rabbi Fromson stressed that education is key to breaking down prejudices. 'We can bring light into that darkness with programmes that foster understanding, sensitivity, and empathy,' he said. He emphasised the need to target younger age groups but also highlighted university campuses as areas requiring urgent attention.
The Rabbi referenced previous attacks, including the 2025 Manchester synagogue attack and the Hazola ambulance attack, noting a buildup of tensions. He called for funding to educate about the root causes of antisemitism, rather than just increasing security.
