Attackers stab two Jewish men in Golders Green, police confirm terror designation.
Two Jewish men were stabbed in Golders Green, north London, in an incident police have officially labelled a 'terrorist incident'. The attack occurred on a pavement, with CCTV footage showing one suspect chasing after a man. Police confirmed a 45-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder. Officers reported that the suspect was Tasered as they feared he was carrying an explosive device.
Counterterrorism police are actively investigating the motive behind the assault, specifically examining whether the Jewish community was the intended target. This inquiry follows a pattern of recent alleged antisemitic incidents in the area, including arson attacks on a synagogue and on Jewish community ambulances.
Community security group Shomrim, who responded to the scene, stated the suspect was 'attempting to stab Jewish members of the public'.
The incident has prompted a response from national leaders, with the prime minister convening a COBRA meeting. The justice minister and local MP also indicated plans for further engagement with criminal justice agencies.
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Background: A pattern of unease
Golders Green, a neighbourhood with a significant Jewish population, has been the site of previous incidents raising community safety concerns. In March, four Jewish community ambulances were targeted in Golders Green, and an arson attack occurred at a synagogue in Finchley on April 15. These events have contributed to a broader climate of anxiety within the UK's Jewish community.
The investigation also encompasses a separate incident reported in South London on the same day as the Golders Green stabbing.
The stabbings come amidst a reported increase in arson attacks on Jewish sites and actions directed at opponents of the Iranian government. The investigation is exploring potential links between this attack and recent antisemitic assaults. The Chief Rabbi has voiced concerns about the safety of visibly Jewish individuals, stating, "if you are visibly Jewish, you're not safe."
