Masked Figure Captured on CCTV in Firebomb Attack on London Synagogue
In a chilling incident, a masked suspect was caught on CCTV footage allegedly hurling a firebomb through the window of a synagogue in north west London. Counter-terror police are actively investigating the attack on Kenton United Synagogue, located on Shaftesbury Avenue in Harrow, which occurred around midnight on Sunday, April 19, 2026.
Details of the Arson Incident
The attack involved a bottle containing an accelerant being flung through a window after the suspect scaled the gates of the synagogue. This caused significant smoke damage, primarily confined to a medical room, but fortunately, no injuries were reported. A passing police patrol noticed smoke billowing from the building and promptly alerted firefighters, who confirmed there was no further fire risk after a thorough search.
The CCTV still, obtained by Metro, shows the suspect wearing a white mask and hood, holding what is believed to be the incendiary device. In connection with this incident, authorities have arrested a 17-year-old boy and a 19-year-old man.
Rising Antisemitic Tensions and Group Claims
This attack is part of a disturbing trend of suspected antisemitic incidents in recent weeks, including the burning out of volunteer Jewish ambulances in Golders Green. The Ashab Al Yamin group has claimed responsibility for these acts. Met Deputy Commissioner Vicki Evans commented on the situation, noting public reports linking the group to Iran. She highlighted concerns about the Iranian regime's use of criminal proxies and stated that investigators are considering if similar tactics are being employed in London.
The Jewish community in Britain has experienced a sharp increase in reported hate crimes following the October 7 attack and Israel's military response in Gaza, adding to the urgency of these investigations.
Community Response and Security Measures
Rabbi Yehudah of Kenton United Synagogue expressed deep sadness over the incident but emphasized resilience. 'This is a very sad day. Obviously it’s a serious incident and we now have extra security. It could have been a lot worse. We will not be deterred,' he told Metro. The rabbi showed the damaged room, which still reeks of petrol and remains unusable, underscoring the cowardly nature of the act.
Brian Lewis, head of security at the synagogue for 40 years, remarked, 'I’ve never seen anything like this in the years I’ve been here. We had eggs chucked a few years ago but this is another level. We’ve brought in extra security – we have to be ready for anything in the current climate.'
Political and Police Reactions
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer condemned the attack, stating he was 'appalled' by the recent antisemitic arson attacks. Counter-terror police are also probing an attempted arson attack on a Persian language service and a synagogue in Finchley, indicating a broader pattern of targeted violence.
A Met Police spokesperson provided an official statement: 'At around midnight on Sunday, 19 April officers on deterrence and reassurance patrols, following a series of incidents in north west London, noticed damage to a window of the Kenton United Synagogue. On further inspection they saw smoke inside a room and evidence that a bottle with some sort of accelerant had been thrown through the window. The incident is being treated as arson and an investigation is underway led by Counter Terrorism Policing London, supported by local officers.'
This event highlights ongoing security challenges and the need for vigilance in protecting communities against hate-driven violence.
