UK Police Investigate Arson Attack on Jewish Ambulances as Hate Crime

Arson Attack on Jewish Ambulances in London

London firefighters responded to a late-night fire in Golders Green where four ambulances belonging to the Jewish Community Ambulance service were set ablaze. The incident is being treated as an antisemitic hate crime by the Metropolitan Police.

Reaction and Statements:

Prime Minister Keir Starmer strongly condemned the attack, stating that antisemitism has no place in society. 'My thoughts are with the Jewish community who are waking up to this horrific news,' he said on X.

The London Fire Brigade reported that multiple cylinders on the vehicles exploded, causing significant damage and breaking windows in adjacent blocks. Eyewitness Mark Reisner described hearing loud explosions and feeling the impact through his guts, leaving the community reeling with shock.

Local charity Shomrim North West London called the attack 'targeted and deeply concerning,' emphasizing that it affects a vital emergency service serving the Jewish community. The group urged anyone with information to share it with police.

Health Secretary West Streeting also condemned the incident, urging people to report any information to authorities. Community Security Trust is assisting police in their enquiries, as antisemitic incidents have surged since the Israel-Hamas War in late 2023.

The ambulances are part of Hatzalah, a volunteer service established in 1979 that provides free medical transportation and emergency response for those in North London. No injuries were reported during the attack.