Escalation in Attacks on Jewish Sites, Says Chief Rabbi
The Chief Rabbi has expressed concern over a rising number of attacks against the Jewish community, following a recent incident of arson at a synagogue in north-west London. This incident has been categorized as part of a growing trend of violence targeting Jewish community sites.
No Casualties but Rising Concern
The synagogue located in Harrow was targeted during the night. Luckily, there were no injuries. However, there was minor smoke damage noted. This incident is the latest in a string of arson and attempted arson attacks on Jewish properties over recent weeks. This includes a former philanthropic building in Hendon, which is now being regarded as an antisemitic hate crime by anti-terrorism authorities.
Community Leaders Speak Out
The Chief Rabbi, Sir Ephraim Mirvis, denounced the latest act as “cowardly.” The Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, echoed these sentiments. He conveyed his shock and promised to boost "visible policing." Sir Ephraim took to social media to express his dismay, writing, "Yet another synagogue, this time in Kenton, was targeted in a cowardly arson attack last night."
He also mentioned a recent attack in Finchley and an attempted attack on a Jewish Futures building in Hendon, saying, "That makes three Jewish sites attacked in London in less than a week."
Ongoing Investigations
Counter-terrorism officials are currently investigating these attacks. These also include incidents at a Persian language media establishment and ambulances belonging to a Jewish charity that were set ablaze in Golders Green last month.
Sir Ephraim highlighted that these incidents are part of a "sustained campaign of violence and intimidation against the Jewish community." He underlined the importance of recognizing the seriousness of this situation for the whole society.
Increased Policing Promised
The Prime Minister shared a strong message on social media, stating, "This is abhorrent and it will not be tolerated. Attacks on our Jewish community are attacks on Britain. We are increasing visible policing and those responsible will be found and brought to justice. We will not rest in the pursuit of perpetrators."
Authorities discovered the damage at the Kenton United Synagogue around midnight while on patrol. They noticed a damaged window, and upon further inspection, they discovered smoke inside a room, indicating that a bottle containing an accelerant had been thrown through the window. Firefighters were immediately called to the scene to ensure no further fire risk.
Investigation Continues
The synagogue is located near a school and a children's playground. Police were observed inspecting a black SUV in the vicinity on Sunday morning. An extensive cordon is in place, and forensic officers, fire investigation dogs, and several plainclothes officers are working at the scene. About five unmarked and one marked police cars were seen outside the place of worship.
The Community Security Trust (CST), a group that provides security for Jewish people, reported that there was no significant structural damage, with only minor smoke damage to an internal room. A spokesperson for CST expressed gratitude to the police and fire brigade for their quick response. They also confirmed that they are working closely with the police to identify those responsible.
"This is now terrifyingly becoming a spree of daily arson attacks on the Jewish community," said a spokesperson for the Campaign Against Antisemitism.
The United Synagogue, the organization to which the Kenton synagogue belongs, highlighted the symbolic importance of these places of worship. "A synagogue is more than just a building, it is a place of worship, community and – theoretically – safety. To target it in this way is a deeply disturbing act that strikes at the heart of Jewish life," the organization stated.
The president of the United Synagogue, Saul Taylor, added, "The prime minister should publicly acknowledge what the Jewish community has known for some time, this is an epidemic of anti-Jewish hate."