Counter-terrorism police are investigating a suspected arson attack at a former synagogue in east London, following a series of incidents targeting Jewish sites in the capital.
Jewish security charity Shomrim reported that fire crews were called to the building on Nelson Street in Whitechapel in the early hours of Tuesday. The Metropolitan Police said officers were alerted by the London Fire Brigade just before 5.15am, and that minor damage was caused to a set of gates and a lock at the front of the building. CCTV evidence indicated the fire had been started deliberately minutes before.
Detective Chief Superintendent Brittany Clarke stated: “We are taking this incident extremely seriously and will work 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 an increased police presence while inquiries continue.”
The former synagogue was due to be sold at auction earlier this year, with a separate bid from a Muslim group seeking to convert it into a mosque and community centre. The Ashaadini Education and Cultural Centre, which has placed a deposit on the site, said in a social media post: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the arson attack at the Nelson Street Synagogue. We unequivocally condemn this cowardly act and any violence or intimidation directed at places of worship. An attack on a house of worship is an attack on all of us. There is no place for hatred in our borough.”
Leon Silver, 76, president of the former synagogue, told the Press Association he felt “awful” after hearing the news. “It was so shocking and I found myself trembling. Even when I got here I was still trembling. 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 said the fire did not spread beyond the gates and there was a failed attempt to smash a window. He 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, as well as a double stabbing in Golders Green treated as terrorism. Most attacks have been claimed by a group called Hayi, suspected to be backed by Iran to sow division in Britain. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is hosting a meeting of senior public figures on Tuesday to drive forward the UK’s response to antisemitism.
Commander Helen Flanagan, head of Counter-Terrorism Policing London, said: “This incident follows a number of arsons and attempted arsons targeting Jewish Londoners in the north-west of the city. We will consider any potential links as our investigation gets under way. Detectives are working quickly to gather evidence and identify those responsible. I urge anyone with CCTV or information to contact police. Counter-terrorism officers continue to work closely with the Metropolitan Police. With the threat level raised to severe, everyone can play a part to keep themselves and their communities safe. If you see or hear anything that doesn’t look or feel right, please report it to us.”
Rushanara Ali, Labour MP for Bethnal Green and Stepney, condemned the attack. Speaking near the building, she told the Press Association: “I understand how distressing this must be for my constituents of Jewish heritage and faith. I speak to them regularly and they have been very concerned about the wider climate of antisemitism and hostility. These attacks will be very concerning. I want to reassure them that I am here with them, and I know the vast majority of people in this community will show solidarity.”
A police cordon on the road near the synagogue remains in place. Anyone with information can contact police on 101 quoting reference CAD 1000/5MAY.
