Massive Fundraising Effort Follows Antisemitic Arson Attack on Jewish Ambulances
In a powerful display of community solidarity, over £3.2 million has been raised to support the Jewish volunteer ambulance service Hatzola after a devastating arson attack destroyed four of its vehicles in Golders Green, north London. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Monday, is being treated by police as an antisemitic hate crime, with Counter Terrorism Policing leading the investigation.
Government Steps In with Loaner Ambulances
Health Secretary Wes Streeting confirmed on Wednesday that the government has loaned four ambulances to Hatzola to ensure the service can continue its life-saving work without interruption. In a statement on social media, Streeting emphasized that permanent replacements are also being funded, aiming to make the service stronger than before the attack. He declared, "Hate can't win," underscoring the commitment to resilience in the face of adversity.
Community Reaction and Increased Security Measures
Hatzola chairman Shloimie Richman described Monday as the "darkest day" in the charity's history, highlighting the emotional toll on volunteers. In response, Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor announced that more than 200 extra officers will be deployed to protect Jewish communities, particularly in the run-up to Passover from April 1-9. Specialist teams, including firearms and drone units, will be utilized to enhance security.
CCTV footage revealed three individuals pouring accelerant on the ambulances before setting them ablaze and fleeing the scene. While the attack has not been declared a terrorist incident, the Metropolitan Police are treating it with utmost seriousness. Sir Mark Rowley, head of the Met Police, noted the increasing targeting of the Jewish community by hostile groups and states, citing grave concerns over Iranian state threats.
Fundraising Success and Ongoing Support
A fundraiser on the CharityExtra platform has already surpassed £3.2 million of its £5 million target, with donations pouring in from across the UK. The fundraising page stated, "Despite this shocking incident, our mission has not changed. We will continue to save lives." A separate campaign has also been launched to support Hatzola Stamford Hill, further demonstrating widespread backing.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak urged communities to "all stand together" against the "horrific antisemitic attack," while Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis condemned the targeting of the volunteer service as "particularly sickening." On Monday evening, over 250 people attended a demonstration in Golders Green to protest antisemitism and show solidarity.
Broader Context and Community Impact
The attack has left the local community in shock, with residents keeping doors and windows shut and few venturing out. Children on their way to school stopped to view the wreckage, reflecting the profound impact on daily life. In a related incident, tensions flared as a local resident claimed responsibility for harassing Al Jazeera journalists, highlighting the heightened emotions in the area.
Islamist group Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia (HAYI) has claimed responsibility for the attack online, posting a video on Telegram that shows the location and burning ambulances. This newly formed group is believed to be aligned with Iran, adding a layer of complexity to the investigation.
As the community grapples with fear and resilience, the overwhelming financial and moral support for Hatzola serves as a beacon of hope. The fundraiser aims to secure new, safer premises and enhanced resources, ensuring that the volunteer service can continue its vital work in the face of hatred.
