Manhunt after attempted arson attack on synagogue

Manhunt after attempted arson attack on synagogue

An arson attempt targeting a synagogue in north London has prompted a search for two individuals, according to police. The incident at Finchley Reform Synagogue involved suspects hurling two bottles believed to hold petrol toward the building. The Metropolitan Police has classified the event as an antisemitic hate crime, noting the perpetrators wore balaclavas and approached the site at approximately 01:00 BST. No damage or injuries were reported.

Earlier this month, four ambulances from a Jewish community charity were also set ablaze, with counter-terrorism units assisting in both investigations. Finchley Reform Synagogue Cantor Zoë Jacobs emphasized the community’s commitment to inclusivity, stating,

“This is clearly an attempt to intimidate the British Jewish community. We will continue to prioritise building bridges across the wider Barnet community and will not be deterred by these cowardly acts.”

Labour MP for Finchley and Golders Green, Sarah Sackman, condemned the attack as part of a troubling trend, asserting,

“British Jews must be free to go about their lives without fear—whether taking their children to nursery or attending synagogue. We do not want to live behind ever higher walls.”

She stressed the need to prevent such incidents from becoming routine.

Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan expressed appreciation for the police response on X, noting,

“While thankfully no one was injured, the Met are urging anyone with information to come forward.”

The Community Security Trust (CST) highlighted its collaboration with law enforcement, stating,

“We are supporting the affected location and are working closely with the police.”

Meanwhile, the Holocaust Educational Trust described the attack as part of a “broader pattern of rising antisemitism, which must be confronted with urgency.”

Det Ch Supt Luke Williams acknowledged the community’s concerns, particularly following the Golders Green arson incident. He reassured,

“We are working with the affected synagogue and continuing to meet with community leaders. I would like to reassure the community that we take incidents of this nature extremely seriously and detectives are working urgently to identify the suspects.”

Local leaders have praised the ongoing support from the police, government, and key partners. The Jewish Leadership Council called the event “horrifying,” underscoring the gravity of the situation. BBC Radio London and BBC London’s social media channels encourage listeners to share story ideas via hello.bbclondon@bbc.co.uk.