London police release on bail 2 men detained in antisemitic attack

Police Release Two Suspects on Bail in Jewish Ambulance Arson Investigation

Two British nationals arrested in connection with an arson attack that destroyed four ambulances belonging to a Jewish charity have been released on bail, London’s Metropolitan Police announced Thursday.

The men, aged 45 and 47, were detained Wednesday on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life following the attack on vehicles owned by Hatzola Northwest, a volunteer emergency service organization serving London’s Jewish community. Police confirmed the suspects have been released under strict bail conditions and will remain under close monitoring as the investigation continues.

The incident occurred early Monday morning in Golders Green, a North London neighborhood with a significant Jewish population. The fire completely destroyed all four ambulances and caused oxygen cylinders within the vehicles to explode, shattering windows in a nearby apartment block. Authorities are treating the attack as a suspected antisemitic hate crime.

Commander Helen Flanagan, head of Counter Terrorism Policing London, described the arrests as “an important breakthrough” but noted that investigators are still working to identify all perpetrators involved.

“We continue to work to try and identify all of those involved in this appalling attack and the investigation team is working around the clock to do this,” Flanagan said in a statement.

Police revealed that closed-circuit camera footage of the attack showed three individuals at the scene, indicating at least one suspect remains at large. Investigators are examining a claim of responsibility from a group allegedly linked to Iran, though authorities have not yet officially classified the incident as a terrorist attack.

The arson comes amid rising tensions and increased antisemitic incidents across the United Kingdom following the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas conflict in October 2023. According to the Community Security Trust, a charity that monitors antisemitism in Britain, the first six months of 2024 saw antisemitic incidents increase by 147% compared to the same period in 2023.

Hatzola Northwest has operated in North London for over 25 years, providing rapid emergency medical response to all residents regardless of faith or background. The organization relies entirely on donations and volunteer medics to maintain its life-saving services.

Community leaders expressed concern about the targeted nature of the attack. Rabbi David Meyer, executive director of the Jewish Leadership Council, called the incident “deeply disturbing” and praised the swift police response.

“These ambulances serve everyone in our community, not just Jewish residents,” Meyer said. “This attack represents not just antisemitism but an assault on vital community services that benefit all Londoners.”

The destruction of the ambulances has temporarily reduced emergency response capacity in the area, though neighboring emergency services have stepped in to ensure coverage. A fundraising campaign launched to replace the destroyed vehicles has already raised over £300,000 ($390,000), demonstrating strong community support.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan condemned the attack, stating: “There is absolutely no place for hate in our city. London stands united with our Jewish communities during this difficult time.”

Police have increased patrols in the area to reassure residents and have appealed for anyone with information about the attack to come forward. The investigation remains ongoing, with forensic teams continuing to examine evidence from the scene and authorities reviewing additional security camera footage from surrounding areas.