Another UK Synagogue Targeted in Fourth Antisemitic Arson Attack in 30 Days

On Saturday evening, the Met Police announced an increase in patrols across northwest London in response to the attacks.

By Shula Rosen

An attempted arson attack targeted Kenton United Synagogue in Harrow shortly after midnight Sunday, marking the fourth antisemitic fire-related incident in 30 days across northwest London, according to the Community Security Trust.

The CST, an organization that provides security for Jewish people, said the synagogue sustained minor smoke damage to an internal room. No injuries were reported, and there was no significant structural damage.

The incident follows a series of similar attacks in recent weeks. A day earlier, a building that had previously belonged to a Jewish charity elsewhere in northwest London was set on fire. Additional incidents have been reported in Finchley, Golders Green, and Hendon.

A spokesperson for CST said: “We are aware of another attempted arson, this time targeting a synagogue in north London, following similar recent incidents targeting the Jewish community in Finchley, Golders Green and Hendon.

On this occasion, there was minor smoke damage to an internal room, with no injuries or significant structural damage. We want to thank the Met Police and London Fire Brigade for responding quickly and for all they are doing to protect the Jewish community during this unprecedented period.”

Authorities said counterterrorism officers are investigating multiple related incidents, including attempted arson attacks on a Persian-language media organization and a synagogue in Finchley. In a separate case, ambulances belonging to a Jewish charity were set alight in Golders Green.

On Saturday evening, the Met Police announced an increase in patrols across northwest London in response to the attacks.

The deployment includes additional officers, expanded stop-and-search powers, and the presence of armed and counter-terrorism units to protect communities and prevent further incidents.

Police activity has been concentrated in areas where the attacks have occurred, as investigations continue into the series of fires targeting Jewish-linked sites and organizations.