Fire Hits Jewish Ambulances in North London

Four volunteer ambulances belonging to the local Jewish charity Hatzola were deliberately set on fire in Golders Green, north London. Police have identified the incident as an antisemitic hate crime and are conducting a full investigation.

The Incident

• Time: Approximately 0140 GMT
• Location: Golders Green, north London
• Victims: Hatzola volunteer ambulances (no injuries reported)

Residents heard alarms and called emergency services as the blaze unfolded. Firefighters from the London Fire Brigade responded with six engines and 40 crews, battling the fire until it was under control by about 0306 GMT. The flames caused several gas cylinders to explode, shattering windows in a nearby apartment block; fortunately, no one was hurt.

Context

• The attack follows a global spike in antisemitic incidents, especially after the Gaza war began.
• Britain has seen a noticeable rise in antisemitic incidents during this period.
• The most serious attack on Jews in Britain last year occurred in Manchester, where two worshippers were killed during a Yom Kippur service.

Police Response

• The arson is being treated as a hate crime.
• Officers remain on scene to investigate and gather evidence.
• The community is urged to report any suspicious activity to help prevent further attacks.