Petrol Bomb Attack Targets North London Synagogue in Alleged Antisemitic Incident
Two petrol bombs were thrown at a synagogue in north London in what police are treating as an antisemitic hate crime. The incident occurred at Finchley Reform Synagogue shortly after midnight, with two suspects in dark clothing approaching the building and launching two bottles suspected to contain petrol, along with a brick.
Community Leaders Condemn 'Cowardly' Attack
The synagogue's senior clergy, Cantor Zoe Jacobs, described the alleged petrol bombing as "an attempt to intimidate the British Jewish community." She emphasized that the synagogue serves as a progressive and welcoming space that hosts not only Jewish services but also a nursery, homeless shelter, and safe gathering place for refugees.
"Last night, two men tried to attack our synagogue and were unsuccessful," Jacobs stated. "This is clearly an attempt to intimidate the British Jewish community, but we will not be deterred by these cowardly acts."
Local MP Vows Action Against Rising Antisemitism
Local MP Sarah Sackman responded forcefully to the incident, stating: "This shocking attempt to harm a local synagogue follows a series of alarming attacks on the Jewish community in Finchley and Golders Green. As your local MP, and as a member of the community, I refuse to allow this to become the 'new normal.'"
Sackman added that British Jews must be free to go about their lives without fear and thanked both the Community Security Trust and Metropolitan Police for their rapid response. She pledged to continue raising issues of antisemitism and security at the highest government levels.
Police Investigation and Community Response
Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams, who leads policing in the area, acknowledged the significant concern this incident would cause, particularly following last month's arson attack on Jewish charity-owned Haztola ambulances in Golders Green. Three people have since been charged in connection with that earlier incident.
"We take incidents of this nature extremely seriously," Williams emphasized. "Detectives are working urgently to identify the suspects." He noted that counter-terror police are supporting the investigation and that residents can expect a heightened police presence in the area over coming days.
The Community Security Trust confirmed they are aware of the attempted arson and are supporting the affected location while working closely with police. They urged anyone with information to contact authorities immediately.
No Injuries or Significant Damage Reported
Fortunately, there were no injuries in the attack, and the building—which houses a nursery—sustained no significant damage. The suspects allegedly escaped in a car that has been captured on CCTV footage, providing investigators with potential leads.
This incident highlights ongoing security concerns for London's Jewish community and raises questions about the effectiveness of current protective measures at religious institutions across the capital.
