Prime Minister Keir Starmer has demanded a swift, agile, and visible response from the government and criminal justice system following a suspected terrorist attack in Golders Green, north-west London, where two men were stabbed. Speaking at a Downing Street meeting with senior ministers and criminal justice agencies, Starmer emphasized that an attack on the Jewish community is an attack on everyone in the country.
Starmer's Statement on the Attack
Starmer said it was vital to understand the visceral feeling among many British Jews and that the fight against antisemitism is everyone's fight. He noted that the attack was not a one-off but part of a series of attacks on the Jewish community, particularly in recent weeks, causing deep anxiety about security, safety, and identity.
Government Response and Funding
The government announced an additional £25 million to boost security for Jewish communities, including increased police patrols and protection around synagogues, schools, and community centres. Legislation to create proscription-like powers to pursue individuals and organizations acting on behalf of malign state-sponsored groups will be fast-tracked and included in the King's Speech on 13 May.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood confirmed the suspect, a 45-year-old British national born in Somalia, came to the UK lawfully as a child. The victims, Shilome Rand, 34, and Moshe Shine, 76, remain in stable condition in hospital. Metropolitan Police Commissioner Mark Rowley stated the suspect has a history of serious violence and mental health issues.
Community Reactions and Concerns
People in Golders Green have expressed fear and uncertainty about their safety in the UK. Baruch Stern of Gross Butchers near the attack scene questioned whether it is safe for Jewish people to remain in the country. Sue Siegel of the Jewish Council of Scotland compared the current climate to feelings before the Holocaust, noting that some community members avoid wearing religious symbols.
Political and Religious Leaders' Responses
Mahmood indicated she would consider banning the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) under new legislation. Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis called for meaningful action to tackle the root causes of antisemitism, while the Board of Deputies of British Jews demanded that antisemitism be confronted with the full force of the state. Jonathan Hall, the independent reviewer of terrorism legislation, described recent attacks as a massive national security emergency and called for a moratorium on pro-Palestinian marches.
