Counter-Terror Police Investigate Iranian Proxies in London Jewish Site Arson Spree
Counter-terror police in London are actively investigating whether a disturbing series of arson attacks targeting Jewish sites across the capital have been orchestrated by Iranian proxies. This alarming pattern of violence has seen ambulances, synagogues, and a charity building subjected to firebombing attempts over the past month, raising significant security concerns within the community.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans of the Metropolitan Police has confirmed that premises associated with individuals opposing the Iranian regime have also been targeted. Most of these attacks have been claimed online by the group Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia, also known as the Islamic Movement of the Companions of the Right, which is suspected of having ties to Iranian interests.
Timeline of Recent Arson Incidents in North London
The following chronology details the escalating attacks that have prompted a robust police response and heightened vigilance among London's Jewish residents.
- 23 March: In the early hours, four Jewish community ambulances were torched in Golders Green, north-west London. The vehicles belonged to Hatzola, a volunteer-led ambulance service. Investigators are probing claims that Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia was responsible, supported by a Telegram video showing a map of the location and footage of the burning ambulances.
- 15 April: Attempted arson attacks occurred at Finchley Reform Synagogue and outside the offices of Volant Media, the parent company of Persian news channel Iran International, both in north-west London. At the synagogue, bottles containing petrol were placed near the building by two individuals in dark clothing and balaclavas, but failed to ignite. Later, an ignited container was thrown towards the media company's site, landing in a car park where the fire extinguished quickly. No injuries were reported in either incident.
- 18 April: Items were found near the Israeli embassy in central London in the morning. That night, a former Jewish charity building in Hendon, Barnet, was attacked. A man placed a bag containing three bottles of fluid by the old Jewish Futures building, lit them, and fled after they failed to fully ignite, causing minor damage to the shopfront. Videos shared by Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia appeared to claim responsibility, showing targets over the Israeli embassy and the Hendon attack.
- 19 April: A bottle with an accelerant was thrown through the window of Kenton United Synagogue in Harrow, causing smoke damage inside a room. Video seemingly from Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia depicted a person in dark clothing lighting and throwing an item at the synagogue. Two teenagers, a 17-year-old boy and a 19-year-old man, have been arrested in connection with this incident and remain in custody.
The Metropolitan Police have emphasised that there have been no significant injuries reported across these attacks, but the psychological impact on the Jewish community is profound. The force continues to work closely with community leaders to enhance security measures and reassure residents.
This spate of arson attempts underscores the ongoing threats faced by minority groups in London and highlights the complex international dimensions of domestic terrorism. As investigations proceed, authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity immediately.
