A 37-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of preparing terrorist acts in connection with a string of attacks on Jewish sites across London. The individual was taken into custody by counter-terrorism officers at an address near Barnstaple in Devon on Sunday.
Arrests and Investigation
According to the Metropolitan Police, a total of 26 people have been arrested since late March in relation to the series of incidents targeting Jewish communities. The attacks have included arson on Jewish community ambulances in Golders Green, north-west London, a synagogue, and a former Jewish charity, as well as an incident where a drone was flown near the Israeli embassy.
Potential Iranian Links
Counter-terror police have been probing the possible involvement of Iranian proxies in these attacks. Last week, the force confirmed that premises linked to individuals opposing the Iranian regime have also been targeted.
On 15 April, an attempted arson attack was carried out at Finchley Reform Synagogue and outside the offices of a Persian media company, both located in north-west London.
In a separate development, a 17-year-old boy pleaded guilty at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday to arson not endangering life following an attack on Kenton United Synagogue.
Prime Minister's Response
During a visit to the synagogue on Thursday, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer addressed the situation, stating: “We have to deal with malign state actors, that will require legislation. We’re going to bring that legislation forward. It’s really important we do that. It’s very important in this particular context because I’m increasingly concerned that a number of countries are using proxies for attacks in this country.”
At a roundtable discussion with Jewish community leaders, including Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis and local representatives from Kenton United Synagogue, the prime minister emphasised that the fight to practice their religion freely is “all of our fight.”
