London Police Declare Stabbing of Two Jewish Men a Terrorist Incident

London police have declared the stabbing of two Jewish men in the Golders Green neighborhood a terrorist incident. The attack occurred on Wednesday morning, leaving the victims hospitalized in stable condition. A 45-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after being subdued with a Taser.

m. on Highfield Avenue in the Barnet borough. Responding officers encountered the suspect, who attempted to attack them before his arrest. No officers were injured.

Counterterrorism officers are leading the probe, working to determine the motive and whether the Jewish community was deliberately targeted. Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor stated that the classification as terrorism reflects the early investigative direction.

Police are examining the suspect's nationality and background, with one line of inquiry focusing on possible antisemitic intent. The victims, a 76-year-old and a 34-year-old man, suffered stab wounds and were treated at the scene by the London Ambulance Service before hospitalization.

Some sources reported their ages as in the 70s and 30s, but all confirmed they remain in stable condition. Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams noted that investigators are considering all possible motives and will maintain a visible police presence in the area to reassure residents.

Shomrim, a volunteer neighborhood watch group, reported that the suspect was seen armed with a knife on Golders Green Road and was detained by members before police arrived. The group stated that two victims were treated by Hatzola, a volunteer emergency medical service.

Some reports linked the incident to recent arson attacks on Jewish sites in London, including synagogues and a charity's ambulances. Counterterror detectives are investigating potential connections, though no direct link has been confirmed. Several individuals have been arrested in relation to those arsons.

condemned the attack, stating that attacks on the Jewish community are attacks on Britain. London Mayor Sadiq Khan said there is no place for antisemitism in the city and noted a series of shocking antisemitic attacks. Conservative MP Kemi Badenoch described the incident as part of an epidemic of violence against Jewish people, calling it a national emergency.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog expressed horror at the attack and urged urgent action to prevent further incidents. The Community Security Trust recorded 3,700 such incidents in 2025, up from 1,662 in 2022, with a surge following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel and the Gaza war.

Local resident Dov Forman described the event as part of a broader troubling pattern, citing concerns over extremist rhetoric. Britain's chief rabbi has stated that UK Jews face a campaign of violence and intimidation. Authorities urged anyone with information to contact police as the investigation continues.

Increased patrols have been promised in response to community distress.