The UK's terrorism threat level has been raised to 'severe' by the Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre (JTAC) following a stabbing attack in Golders Green, north London. The new assessment means a terrorist attack is considered 'highly likely' within the next six months, up from the previous level of 'substantial', which indicated an attack was likely.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood described Wednesday's attack as a vile act of terrorism and acknowledged the concern this will cause, particularly among the Jewish community. She announced a significant increase in investment to protect Jewish communities, including record funding for policing and security at synagogues, schools, and community centres.
The Home Office stated that while the Golders Green attack contributed to the decision, the threat level has been rising for some time due to an increase in Islamist and extreme rightwing terrorist threats from individuals and small groups based in the UK. It also noted a backdrop of increased state-linked physical threats encouraging violence, including against the Jewish community.
Police have confirmed they will review whether marches and large events will go ahead in the coming weeks. Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor, head of counter terrorism policing, said police will work with forces to ensure appropriate protective security measures are in place and engage with affected communities.
The Stop the War coalition is planning a major demonstration in London on 16 May to mark Nakba Day. Taylor stated that at this stage, the review is ongoing and decisions on whether marches will proceed are part of that work.
