Shilome Rand, one of the victims of a suspected terror attack in Golders Green, has accused the government of failing to protect the Jewish community. The 34-year-old was stabbed in the chest as he walked to his car from a synagogue on Wednesday, in an incident that also left 76-year-old Moshe Ben Baila, also known as Moshe Shine, injured at a bus stop. A 45-year-old Somali-born British national has been arrested, and counter-terrorism police are investigating.
Victim's Testimony
Speaking from his hospital bed, Mr Rand told ITV News: "People are really concerned, people are afraid, people are uncomfortable walking in the street, people are blaming the government for not doing anything about what's going on." He added: "The government, they are the ones that are able to take care of the problems. And they are not doing their job." Recalling the attack, he said: "I didn't suspect anything and he just stabbed me in the chest. He looked angry, you could feel it in his facial expressions, it was like he was out to get me." Both victims are in stable condition in hospital.
Government Response
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer described the attack as "deeply concerning" and reiterated his government's determination to tackle antisemitism. He announced additional funding for security at Jewish sites and pledged to address the root causes of such hatred. He is expected to meet criminal justice agencies on Thursday and plans to visit Golders Green soon. However, critics, including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis, have called for stronger action. Netanyahu posted: "Words are not enough to confront this scourge."
Police Measures
In the wake of the attack, police have implemented a Section 60 order in Golders Green, granting officers temporary stop-and-search powers without specific suspicion. Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams and Barnet Council chief executive Cath Shaw confirmed a significant police presence in the area, including increased patrols near schools, transport hubs, and faith venues. Counter-terrorism officers are also searching an address in south-east London linked to the suspect, who had been involved in a prior altercation.
