Two Arrested In Connection With Arson Attack On Jewish Charity's Ambulances

British police arrested two men, aged 47 and 45, on Wednesday (March 25) in connection with an arson attack on ambulances belonging to a Jewish charity in Golders Green, north London. The men were detained at separate addresses in northwest and central London. The attack, which occurred early Monday morning, is being investigated as an antisemitic hate crime.

The Metropolitan Police reported that four ambulances owned by Hatzola, a volunteer Jewish organization, were set ablaze, causing explosions from gas canisters onboard. The incident has not been classified as a terror attack, but counter-terrorism officers are involved in the investigation. A group called Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia has claimed responsibility for the attack on social media, although police have not confirmed this claim.

According to the BBC, the Metropolitan Police chief, Sir Mark Rowley, mentioned that detectives are exploring potential links to Iranian state actors, though it is too early to confirm any direct involvement. The police have increased security measures in Jewish neighborhoods, including deploying additional officers and firearms patrols.

The arson attack has sparked concern within the Jewish community, which has faced rising antisemitism in the UK. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood emphasized the government's commitment to protecting the Jewish community, stating, "We stand with you, and we will do everything in our power to protect you."

The attack took place near the Machzike Hadath synagogue, a significant site for the Jewish community in Golders Green. The London Ambulance Service will provide additional support to ensure emergency services remain uninterrupted.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the attack, describing it as "an attack on all of us." The government has pledged to fund the replacement of the destroyed ambulances, ensuring that Hatzola can continue its life-saving work.