Counter-terrorism police are investigating a suspected arson attack at a former synagogue in east London, as part of a broader inquiry into a series of apparent attacks on Jewish sites across the capital since late March.
Incident Details
Jewish security charity Shomrim reported that fire crews were called to the building on Nelson Street, Whitechapel, in the early hours of Tuesday. The Metropolitan Police confirmed officers were alerted just before 5:15am by the London Fire Brigade. Minor damage was caused to a set of gates and a lock at the front of the building, with CCTV evidence indicating the fire was started deliberately minutes before the emergency services arrived.
Police Response
Detective Chief Superintendent Brittany Clarke stated: “We are taking this incident extremely seriously and we will be working closely with colleagues from Counter Terrorism Policing to support the investigation. The building targeted has not been operational as a synagogue for some years but that will be of little comfort to the Jewish community in Tower Hamlets, Hackney and beyond, who are first in my thoughts this morning. Local residents can expect to see an increased police presence in the area while inquiries into this incident continue.”
Background and Context
The former synagogue in Whitechapel was scheduled to be sold at auction earlier this year, with a separate bid by a Muslim group to purchase the building and convert it into a mosque and community centre. President of the former synagogue, Leon Silver, 76, expressed his shock to the Press Association: “It was so shocking and I found myself trembling. Even when I got here I was still trembling. I mean it’s an awful thing to happen – and in Tower Hamlets. I was used to hearing about these things in Golders Green. We have had incidents here over the years, passers-by shouting, but nothing on this level, someone trying to burn the synagogue.” He noted that the fire had not spread beyond the gates and that there was a failed attempt to smash a window. Mr Silver added: “Whatever happens in the Middle East always filters down here and it shouldn’t. What on earth does that synagogue have to do with what’s happening thousands of miles from here?”
Since late March, there have been multiple arson attacks at Jewish sites in London, including a double stabbing in Golders Green treated as an act of terrorism. Most attacks have been claimed by a group called Hayi, suspected to be backed by Iran in an effort to sow division in Britain. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is hosting a meeting of senior public figures on Tuesday to advance the UK’s response to antisemitism.
Official Statements
Commander Helen Flanagan, head of Counter-Terrorism Policing London, said: “This incident follows on from a number of arsons and attempted arsons targeting Jewish Londoners in the north-west of the city and we will be considering any potential links as their investigation gets under way. Detectives are already working quickly to gather evidence and identify those responsible and I would urge anyone with CCTV or information that could assist detectives to contact police. Counter-terrorism officers continue to work closely with our colleagues in the Metropolitan Police in response to the various incidents. We’re providing protective security advice and support to various organisations, community venues and businesses. With the (terrorism) threat level now raised to severe, everyone can play their part to keep themselves and their communities safe. If you see or hear anything that doesn’t look or feel right, then please report it to us. Your information could help us save lives.”
Rushanara Ali, the Labour MP for Bethnal Green and Stepney, condemned the attack. Speaking near the building on Tuesday, she told the Press Association: “I understand how distressing this must be for my constituents of Jewish heritage and Jewish faith. I speak to people of Jewish heritage in my constituency regularly and they have been very concerned about the wider climate of antisemitism and hostility. And of course, these attacks, both here today and elsewhere in London and in the country, will be very concerning. I want to reassure them that I’m here with them, and I know that the vast majority of people in this community, of all backgrounds, will show solidarity.”
A police cordon on the road near the synagogue remains in place on Tuesday afternoon. Anyone with information about the Nelson Street arson can contact police on 101 quoting reference CAD 1000/5MAY.
