Counter Terror Police Investigate Arson Attack on Jewish Charity Ambulances
Counter terror police are leading the investigation after four ambulances linked to a Jewish community charity were set on fire in north London. The attack happened near a synagogue in Golders Green and caused explosions from gas cylinders inside the vehicles, which also damaged nearby flats. No injuries were reported, but the case is being treated as a hate crime and all lines of inquiry remain open.
Four Ambulances Were Destroyed in the Fire
Emergency crews sent six fire engines and about 40 firefighters to the scene. The blaze destroyed four ambulances used by Hatzola, a volunteer emergency service that supports the Jewish community. Police said the ambulances were parked close to a synagogue when they were set alight.
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Counter Terror Officers Have Taken Charge
British counter terrorism police are now leading the investigation, although the attack has not been formally classified as terrorism. Police said specialist officers were brought in to make sure investigators have access to the right expertise while they examine motive, evidence, and any wider links.
Police Are Examining an Online Claim of Responsibility
Investigators are also looking into an online claim of responsibility by a group, but police have not confirmed whether that claim is genuine. Reuters reported that authorities are checking the authenticity of the statement as part of the wider inquiry.
Leaders Condemn the Attack
The prime minister described the incident as deeply shocking and said antisemitism has no place in society. London’s mayor also condemned the attack, while the Israeli embassy in Britain called for a full investigation. Police have increased patrols in the area to reassure the local community.
The Attack Comes Amid Wider Security Concerns
The incident comes during a broader rise in antisemitic attacks and threats against Jewish institutions in Europe. Recent Reuters reporting also linked similar claimed incidents in Belgium, Greece, and the Netherlands to the same militant group, though investigators are still verifying those links.
The Investigation Is Now Focused on Motive and Links
For now, the main questions are who carried out the arson. Whether the online claim is authentic. And whether the attack is connected to other recent incidents targeting Jewish sites. Police have not announced arrests, and the investigation remains active.
