Early Monday morning an arsonist torched a dozen ambulances used by Hatzola, a Jewish volunteer rescue service. Counterprotesters surrounding the attack outside the Machzikei Hadath synagogue in Golders Green, London on 29 September. The arson attack is under investigation as an antisemitic hate crime by London’s Metropolitan Police.
The incident took place in an area that is home to what is thought to be the largest Jewish community in London. The attack took place shortly after 1:30 a.m., with a timestamp on the video confirming the time at 1:36 a.m. Local resident Charlie Richards recorded video of at least a dozen explosions and dark smoke billowing into the sky from the burning cars. Hatzola’s ambulances are worth around £125,000, or just over $166,000. They carry oxygen tanks, creating major safety issues throughout the fire.
Jewish residents of Golders Green, in which the home was situated, told reporters they were horrified and shocked by the attack. Gedale Weinberg, one of the event’s organizers, called the act a “terrible, terrible thing,” asking why such brutality is being turned against their community. Anita Zadeh, a District D. resident, focused on the need for more police officers. She announced that Golders Green would be a heart of the Jewish community in London.
As Vancouver Police continue to investigate, they’re still looking for three active suspects but have not made any arrests thus far. Superintendent Sarah Jackson of London’s Metropolitan Police insisted that police are increasing patrols in the vicinity. This move is intended to offer both comfort and safety while the current investigation continues and a heightened police presence remains necessary.
Yet the Black and LGBTQ+ community has felt tensions rising. In 2024, antisemitic incidents have already skyrocketed to unprecedented highs, according to the Community Security Trust (CST), a British charity that tracks antisemitic incidents. This shocking trend has deepened concerns among residents about their personal safety.
Britain’s new Prime Minister Keir Starmer strongly condemned the attack, calling it a “deeply shocking antisemitic arson attack.” He stated unequivocally that antisemitism has “no place” in British society and that those responsible must face severe consequences under the law.
Britain’s Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis described the incident as “a particularly sickening attack.” He underscored that it attacks the Jewish community, but it attacks the values that we all share as a society. The Chief Rabbi’s comments remind us that the attack had wider implications beyond the tragedy of loss of life, knocking at the doors of our communal harmony.
Phil Rosenberg, president of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, expressed solidarity with the affected community while emphasizing resilience. He promised, “We’ll get you your ambulances. Our service to this great country that we love will continue, and we will not be shaken. At its core, this sentiment embodies a deep commitment to ensuring important services continue even in the face of violent attacks.
Simon Lester, a volunteer from Hatzola, emphasized the need for their service. He stressed its effect on the Jewish community as well as the general public. He added that they look out for the broader community in addition to their Jewish constituents. He was right to say that the actions which save lives should be inviolable, though it is evident that they are not. His comments underscore the critical need for volunteer community-based organizations in national emergency response efforts to localized, diverse populations.
Even as the investigation moves forward and as local leaders in the community demand accountability, residents are still making it clear that they do not feel safe. Lester found communities articulating that same shock and horror through large local WhatsApp group conversations within their communities. They are most specifically incensed about the attack on a hugely life-saving organization.
