A northwest London synagogue has been ‘firebombed,’ shocking the Jewish community as it faces its fourth attack in just one month.
Arson Attempt Rocks Kenton United Synagogue
Kenton United Synagogue in Harrow was targeted late Saturday night. This marks the third attempted bombing on Jewish places of worship in a single week and the fourth in a month. Video from the scene shows flashing blue police lights and fire crews working behind cordons on Shaftesbury Avenue. Forensic teams are currently investigating. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. Initial reports described an incendiary device smashing a medical room window, causing minor smoke damage but no significant structural harm to the synagogue.
Community Security Trust Condemns Wave of Attacks
A spokesperson for the Community Security Trust said:
“We are aware of another attempted arson, this time targeting a synagogue in north London, following similar recent incidents in Finchley, Golders Green and Hendon. There was minor smoke damage, no injuries, and no major structural damage.” “We thank the Met Police, London Fire Brigade and our CST team for the quick response. We are supporting the affected location and working closely with police to find those responsible.” “We urge people to stay vigilant and report suspicious activity immediately to police and CST.”
Chief Rabbi and Campaigners Speak Out
Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis called the attacks “cowardly” and warned of a “sustained campaign of violence and intimidation” against British Jews. He added:
“This sustained attack on our community’s ability to worship safely is an attack on values that bind us all together. Thankfully, no lives have been lost, but this moment is dangerous for our whole society.”
The Campaign Against Antisemitism called the spate of attacks “terrifying” and slammed a “cataclysmic failure” of the state to tackle antisemitic extremism, which they say has flourished unchecked for over two years. The group also criticised the Government’s reluctance to proscribe the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps, citing foreign radicalisation concerns.
Heightened Security As Police Respond
Following a string of arson attacks—including one this week where an Islamist group claimed responsibility for an attack on a Jewish business in Hendon—the Metropolitan Police have increased patrols in northwest London. A police spokesperson said:
“After recent incidents, communities can expect a significant increase in officers in and around the area over the weekend. Uniformed, plain-clothed and armed officers, alongside Counter Terrorism units, have been deployed.” “The investigation is ongoing, and no arrests have been made.”
The police continue to keep an open mind on the motive behind the attacks as the Jewish community remains on high alert.
