British authorities are investigating an arson attack on ambulances belonging to a Jewish volunteer group in London, which resulted in the destruction of four vehicles. Police believe this to be a hate crime.
On 23 Mar 2026 GMT+7, the London Metropolitan Police announced that an arson attack targeted ambulances of a Jewish charity organization in North London. The investigation is being conducted as a hate crime against Jewish people, with counter-terrorism officers also involved.
Ambulances from the organization Hatzola were set on fire in the Golders Green area during early Monday morning local time, causing several explosions from gas canisters inside the vehicles.
Hatzola is a large nonprofit Jewish volunteer organization providing emergency medical response and patient transport to hospitals free of charge.
No arrests have been made yet, but police are examining CCTV footage that appears to show three suspects dressed in black setting fire to the ambulances. However, Detective Superintendent Luke Williams said the incident has not been declared a terrorist act "at this stage."
"We are aware of online claims by a group claiming responsibility for this attack, but verifying the authenticity and accuracy of these claims is a top priority for the investigation team, and we cannot confirm them at this time."
The claim seems to come from a group linked to Iran called Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamiya, who posted their statement via their Telegram channel.
Home Secretary Suella Braverman told the House of Commons that she urges anyone with information to come forward to the police immediately.
"This incident comes at a time when antisemitism in our country is rising significantly. Today, my message to our Jewish community is clear: we stand with you. We will do everything in our power to protect you, and we will fight relentlessly to eradicate antisemitism from our society."
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Source:bbc