Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has condemned what he described as an 'appalling attack' in Golders Green, where two Jewish men were stabbed, and pledged to address the root causes of extremism.
Five Key Points from Starmer's Statement
Speaking after chairing a Cobra meeting on Wednesday, Sir Keir outlined the government's response to the incident, which he said was not isolated but part of a worrying trend of antisemitic attacks.
1. Visit to Golders Green
Starmer said he would visit the area 'as soon as possible' to show solidarity with the Jewish community.
2. Acknowledging a Pattern
The prime minister stressed that the attack 'is not an isolated incident', referencing a string of recent antisemitic acts.
3. Root Causes and Swift Justice
He announced meetings with criminal justice agencies on Thursday to ensure 'effective and swift justice' and to tackle the underlying causes of extremism and antisemitism.
4. Community Anxiety
Starmer recognised the heightened fear among Jewish people, noting they feel 'exposed and vulnerable', often hiding their identity in healthcare, schools, and on the streets.
5. Government's Duty
He affirmed it is the government's job to make Jewish citizens feel safe and secure, and reiterated the need to address malign state actors.
The attack has prompted widespread condemnation, with the victims named and a man arrested. Starmer's remarks underscore the government's commitment to combating antisemitism and ensuring community safety.
