First Minister John Swinney has convened a security meeting with Police Scotland after the UK’s national threat level was raised from substantial to severe. The change follows an antisemitic attack in Golders Green, London, where a man allegedly stabbed two Jewish men and attempted to murder another individual.
Threat Level Raised to Severe
The national threat level was increased to severe, meaning an attack is highly likely. The decision was announced by the Home Secretary in response to a series of recent attacks on Jewish communities, including a terror attack declared in north London on April 29.
Scottish Government Response
Mr Swinney said he was engaged with Scotland’s Jewish community to offer support and reassurance. The Scottish Government stated it is “actively engaged” with Jewish community leaders to ensure people are supported and that policing and security measures are in place.
The First Minister was briefed by Chief Constable Jo Farrell and Assistant Chief Constable Stuart Houston on security measures across Scotland. Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville will also speak directly to representatives of the Jewish Council of Scotland on Friday.
Police Scotland Statement
Police Scotland has said there is no intelligence to suggest a specific threat to Scotland. Assistant Chief Constable Houston urged the public to remain alert but not alarmed, and to report any suspicious activity. He emphasised that the increase in threat level is a UK-wide measure, and Police Scotland is monitoring the situation closely.
Details of the Attack
Essa Suleiman, 45, is accused of trying to kill Shloime Rand, 34, and Norman Shine, 76, during a knife rampage in Golders Green on Wednesday. Mr Rand was attacked as he left a synagogue, while Mr Shine was allegedly stabbed in the neck at a bus stop. Suleiman is also accused of attempting to murder Ishmail Hussein, a man he had known for around 20 years, at his home in Southwark hours before the Golders Green attacks.
Community Impact
Mr Swinney condemned the attack, stating: “Antisemitism has absolutely no place in our society and Jewish people must be able to live in safety.” He acknowledged that the change in threat level will cause anxiety and distress, especially within the Jewish community, and stressed that Police Scotland is taking steps to ensure appropriate security measures are in place.
The First Minister encouraged everyone to follow Police Scotland’s advice to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
