Counterterrorism police probe arson attack on former UK synagogue building

London Synagogue Attacked with Arson

A fire broke out at a former synagogue in London’s Tower Hamlets borough on Tuesday, prompting an investigation by British counterterrorism police. The incident occurred just hours before Prime Minister Keir Starmer held a meeting to address anti-Semitism.

According to authorities, no one was injured during the arson attack, but the fire was deliberately set and caused minor damage to a gate and lock at the front of the building. The synagogue had not been in use as a place of worship for several years.

The UK’s national threat level was raised to “severe” last week, indicating that an attack is considered highly likely. This increase was attributed to a broader Islamist and extreme right-wing terrorist threat posed by individuals and small groups in the country.

In recent weeks, there have been multiple arson attacks at synagogues and Jewish sites in London. The latest incident follows two separate incidents last week, where two Jewish men and one Muslim man were stabbed in London.

Detective Chief Superintendent Brittany Clarke stated that the investigation is ongoing and that counterterrorism policing will be working closely with colleagues to support the inquiry. Prime Minister Starmer has announced plans to fast-track legislation in response to the increase in attacks, describing the situation as a “crisis”.

Source: Al Jazeera