Counter terrorism police in London are conducting a major investigation into whether the Iranian state is orchestrating a disturbing series of firebomb attacks against the Jewish community. Senior officers have revealed they are examining compelling evidence that criminal proxies, potentially paid by foreign actors, may have carried out three separate arson incidents targeting Jewish and Persian-linked properties.
Pattern of Attacks Raises Alarm
The investigation focuses on three coordinated attacks that share a similar methodology. The first occurred last month when four ambulances belonging to the volunteer-led Hatzola service, which operates within the Jewish community in Golders Green, were firebombed. CCTV footage captured three hooded individuals setting the vehicles ablaze outside a synagogue in north-west London on March 23.
This was followed by two further incidents on Wednesday. At approximately 12:10am, an attempted arson attack took place at a synagogue in Finchley, resulting in the arrest of a 47-year-old woman and a 46-year-old man on suspicion of arson endangering life. Later that evening, at around 8:30pm, an 'ignited container' was thrown towards the offices of Volant Media in Wembley, the parent company of the Persian news channel Iran International.
Arrests and Police Response
Following the Wembley attack, armed officers pursued suspects in an SUV, which subsequently crashed. Three males aged 16, 19, and 21 were arrested on suspicion of arson endangering life. Deputy Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, Matt Jukes, issued a stark warning to anyone considering accepting payment from hostile states to conduct attacks in the UK.
'We know that some individuals are being persuaded or paid to act on behalf of foreign organisations and states,' Jukes stated. 'If you act out of hatred, racism or antisemitism, we will come after you and you will face the consequences.' He emphasized that Britain is experiencing a period where 'foreign interference impacts the streets of London,' with people being paid to 'drive wedges in our community.'
Investigating Iranian Connections
Vicki Evans, senior national coordinator for counter terrorism policing, confirmed that while all three incidents are being treated as separate attacks, the similarity in method and nature of the targets has raised significant suspicion. When questioned about potential Iranian involvement, Evans remarked, 'We are open-minded and all lines of inquiry are open at this stage.'
The Metropolitan Police is specifically probing claims of responsibility by the Iran-linked Islamist group Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia. This group, which has claimed other attacks across Europe since the outbreak of conflict in Iran, posted videos on Telegram on Wednesday regarding the two latest incidents in London.
Political and Community Reaction
Sarah Sackman, MP for Finchley and Golders Green, described Wednesday's incidents as 'shocking,' highlighting the profound impact on the local Jewish community. The attacks have intensified concerns about foreign state-sponsored terrorism on British soil, particularly targeting minority groups.
Jukes further warned those tempted by financial incentives, 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. We will show that they are wrong and they will face consequences. Those who have paid for it will drop them like a stone, and they'll face justice on their own.'
The investigation continues as counter terrorism units work to establish definitive links between these attacks and potential state actors, while bolstering security measures for vulnerable communities across London.
