Two Arrested in Antisemitic Arson Attack Targeting Hatzolah Ambulances in London
Counterterrorism police in the United Kingdom have arrested two suspects in connection with the shocking antisemitic arson attack that destroyed multiple Hatzolah ambulances in the Golders Green neighborhood earlier this week.
According to the Metropolitan Police, two men, aged 45 and 47, were taken into custody on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life. The arrests were carried out in northwest and central London, with officers also conducting searches at the suspects’ residences as part of the ongoing investigation.
Authorities described the arrests as a “significant breakthrough,” while cautioning that the investigation remains active. CCTV footage reviewed by police indicates that at least three individuals were involved in the attack, and efforts are continuing to locate additional suspects.
As previously reported on CrownHeights.info, the attack took place in the early hours of Monday morning, when four ambulances belonging to Hatzola Northwest were set ablaze outside the Machzike Hadath Shul. The vehicles were reportedly doused with accelerant and ignited by masked individuals.
Explosions caused by oxygen cylinders inside the ambulances led to further damage in the surrounding area, including nearby residences, though—miraculously—no injuries were reported.
The incident is being treated as an antisemitic hate crime and is being led by Counter Terrorism Policing, reflecting the seriousness of the attack and its potential wider implications.
In the immediate aftermath, community leaders and officials strongly condemned the attack, describing it as a brazen act of antisemitism targeting not only Jewish infrastructure but emergency responders dedicated to saving lives.
Despite the devastation, Hatzolah confirmed that its operations would continue uninterrupted, with replacement ambulances quickly secured to ensure continued service to the community.
Police have maintained an increased presence in Jewish neighborhoods across North London following the attack, as concerns over rising antisemitism continue to grow.
Authorities are also examining claims of responsibility made by a group with possible ties to Iranian-backed networks, though officials have not confirmed the authenticity of those claims.
Commander Helen Flanagan of Counter Terrorism Policing emphasized that investigators are working “around the clock” to identify and apprehend all those involved.
“We fully recognize the concern within the community,” she said, noting that police will continue pursuing every lead until all perpetrators are brought to justice.
As the investigation continues, the arrests mark a major development in what has been widely condemned as a deeply disturbing attack on the Jewish community and its essential emergency services.
