In the quiet hours after midnight, a north London synagogue became the target of a disturbing act of alleged antisemitism. Two individuals, cloaked in darkness, approached Finchley Reform Synagogue and hurled bottles suspected to contain petrol, along with a brick, at the building’s facade.
Fortunately, the attack caused no injuries and remarkably, no damage to the synagogue itself. This building isn’t simply a place of worship; it’s a vibrant hub of community life, sheltering a nursery, offering refuge to the homeless, and providing a safe haven for those seeking asylum.
Cantor Zoe Jacobs, a senior member of the synagogue’s clergy, described the incident as a deliberate attempt to instill fear within the British Jewish community. She emphasized the synagogue’s commitment to inclusivity and vowed that such cowardly acts would not succeed in silencing their welcoming spirit.
The attempted arson follows a troubling pattern of attacks targeting the Jewish community in the surrounding areas of Finchley and Golders Green. Local MP Sarah Sackman expressed her outrage, stating that such incidents must not become normalized and that British Jews deserve to live without fear.
Sackman visited the synagogue to offer support to residents and community leaders, praising the swift response of the Community Security Trust (CST) and the Metropolitan Police. She pledged to continue advocating for increased security and to address the rising tide of antisemitism at the highest levels of government.
This incident occurred just weeks after a separate arson attack on Haztola ambulances, owned by a Jewish charity in Golders Green, where three individuals have already been charged. The proximity of these events has heightened anxieties within the community.
Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams, leading the police response, acknowledged the deep concern this attack has generated. He assured the community that detectives are working tirelessly to identify the suspects and have increased police presence in the area.
Counter-terror police are now assisting with the investigation, underscoring the seriousness with which authorities are treating this alleged hate crime. The CST is actively supporting the synagogue and collaborating closely with law enforcement.
Authorities are appealing to the public for any information, including CCTV or dashcam footage, that could aid in identifying the perpetrators. Residents are encouraged to report any concerns to the increased police presence in the area.
The Community Security Trust urged anyone with information to immediately contact the police, emphasizing the need to hold those responsible accountable for this disturbing act of alleged hate.
