Investigation into Arson Attack on Jewish Charity Ambulances
The Metropolitan Police are investigating a group with potential connections to the Iranian state in relation to an arson attack targeting ambulances owned by a Jewish charity. The incident occurred in Golders Green, London, where four Hatzola ambulances were set on fire during the early hours of Monday. The attack caused multiple explosions due to gas canisters present in the vehicles.
Police Response and Statements
At an event held on Monday evening, Sir Mark Rowley, head of the Metropolitan Police, addressed the situation, highlighting the significant increase in threats linked to the Iranian state in recent years. However, he emphasized that it remains
"too early" to attribute the attack to Tehran.
The police suspect that three individuals were involved in the incident, which is currently being treated as an antisemitic hate crime rather than a terrorist act.
Sir Mark Rowley stated that law enforcement is
"pursuing all lines of enquiry", including "an online claim of responsibility by an Islamist group who have claimed other attacks across Europe and have potential Iranian state links".
Claims of Responsibility and Security Measures
The group Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamiya, also known as The Islamic Movement of the People of the Right Hand and aligned with Iran, made an unverified claim of responsibility for the attack via its Telegram channel.
In response to the incident, Sir Mark outlined enhanced security protocols, which involve deploying 264 additional police officers to safeguard the Jewish community in London. This includes
"additional highly visible firearms patrols"to increase protection.
About Hatzola and the Community
Hatzola is a prominent non-profit, Jewish-led organisation that provides free emergency medical response and hospital transportation services. Operated by volunteers, it has served the Golders Green area in north London, known for its substantial Jewish population, since 1979.
The Golders Green ward is home to numerous synagogues, and according to data from the London Data Store, 49% of its residents identify as Jewish.
