Several Ambulances Belonging To A Jewish Volunteer Rescue Organization

Several ambulances belonging to a Jewish volunteer rescue organization were set on fire outside a synagogue in north London, in what police are treating as an antisemitic attack. The incident occurred in the early hours of Monday in Golders Green, a neighborhood home to one of the largest Jewish communities in the UK. Authorities said multiple emergency vehicles operated by the Jewish charity Hatzola were deliberately targeted and destroyed in the blaze

Police say:

• Several ambulances were set alight outside a synagogue
• Explosions from onboard oxygen canisters caused further damage
• Nearby homes were affected, with dozens of residents temporarily displaced
• Surveillance footage reportedly shows three suspects pouring accelerant on the vehicles before igniting them and fleeing the scene. No injuries were reported, but the damage to emergency vehicles was significant.The Metropolitan Police have classified the incident as an antisemitic hate crime, with counterterrorism officers leading the investigation.
• Possible links to extremist groups
• Verification of claims of responsibility circulating online

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the attack as a “deeply shocking antisemitic” act.

Religious and community leaders also condemned the incident, warning it represents:

• A direct attack on the Jewish community
• A threat to essential emergency services used by all residents The attack has sparked fear and concern among local residents in Golders Green, a long-established hub of Jewish life in London Hatzola, the volunteer emergency service targeted, provides free medical response to people of all backgrounds, making the destruction of its ambulances especially alarming.The incident comes amid rising concerns over antisemitism in the UK and across Europe, with officials warning of an increase in hate-related incidents targeting Jewish communities.Authorities say additional security measures and police patrols are being deployed as the investigation continues. Police are actively searching for suspects and appealing for information from the public.Meanwhile, government officials have pledged support to replace the destroyed ambulances and ensure emergency services in the area remain operational.