Iran-Linked Group Claims Responsibility for London Ambulance Arson Attack
Detectives are urgently working to identify three hooded individuals captured on CCTV footage, who were seen pouring accelerant on four ambulances at the Hatzola volunteer ambulance service base in Golders Green, north London. The attack occurred at 1.40am on Monday, resulting in a loud explosion that destroyed the vehicles. The Metropolitan Police have launched a full-scale investigation into the incident, which is currently being treated as an antisemitic hate crime.
Investigation into Islamist Group with Possible Iranian Ties
A newly formed Islamist group, Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia (HAYI), has claimed responsibility for the attack online. This group is believed to be aligned with Iran and has posted a video on Telegram showing a map of the location and footage of the burning ambulances. Police are analyzing the authenticity of this claim, as HAYI has also claimed responsibility for attacks on Jewish institutions in other European cities, including Rotterdam, Amsterdam, and Liege.
Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley stated that while it is too early to definitively attribute the attack to Iran, the rapid growth of Iranian state threats in recent years poses a grave concern. He emphasized that Britain's Jewish community has been increasingly targeted by hostile states and groups intent on spreading fear and hate.
Political and Community Reactions
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer condemned the attack as a deeply shocking antisemitic incident, calling for unity against such hatred. In response, about 250 protesters gathered in Golders Green, with some chanting criticisms of the government's handling of anti-Jewish hate. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood described the attack as an assault on the entire country, stressing the importance of Jewish safety and freedom in national life.
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch highlighted the increase in hatred towards Jews and called for action to root out this hatred from its sources, including misinformation and extreme Islamist groups. Israel's president expressed solidarity with the UK's Jewish community, pledging continued support in the fight against antisemitism.
Analysis of the Claimed Responsibility
The group HAYI emerged publicly since the start of the Iran war and bears a name similar to Iran-aligned Iraqi militias, some of which are designated as terrorist organizations by the US. The video shared on Telegram showed no direct evidence linking the group to the attack but included maps and aftermath footage. Police are working to verify the claim's genuineness amid concerns over rising antisemitic incidents globally.
UK Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis labeled the attack as horrific and an act of deep evil, noting that it was a miracle no one was injured. He pointed to a global increase in antisemitic events, underscoring the need for vigilance and community support.
