UK Police Investigate Arson Attacks on London Jewish Sites and Media Outlet

LONDON — British police stated on Sunday, April 20, 2026, that they are investigating whether a string of arson attacks on Jewish sites in London are the work of Iranian proxies. Counterterror officers of the Metropolitan Police are probing fires at synagogues and other sites linked to the Jewish community in London, as well as an attack on a Persian-language media company in the city.

No one has been injured in the arson attacks on Jewish sites in London, which all happened within a few miles of each other.

Recent Incidents and Claims

The latest arson attack caused minor damage to a north London synagogue on Saturday night, April 18, 2026. A group calling itself Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia claimed the arson attacks online. Israel’s government described Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia as a recently founded group with suspected links to an Iranian proxy.

Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia has claimed responsibility for synagogue attacks in Belgium and the Netherlands, according to Israel’s government.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans stated that police are aware of public reporting suggesting Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia may have links to Iran and will explore that question as the investigation evolves. “I’ve spoken previously about the Iranian regime’s use of criminal proxies, and we’re considering whether this tactic is being used here in London,” Evans added.

The Metropolitan Police deployed extra uniformed and plainclothes officers to northwest London after attacks in the past month on synagogues, Jewish charity ambulances, and a Persian-language media organization critical of Iran’s government. Four ambulances belonging to a Jewish charity were torched on March 23, 2026, in the Golders Green neighborhood of London.

Several people, ranging in age from teens to people in their 40s, have been arrested and charged in connection with the arson attacks in London.

Community and Government Reactions

Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis stated on X that a sustained campaign of violence and intimidation against the Jewish community of the UK is gathering momentum. “Thank God, no lives have been lost, but we cannot, and must not, wait for that to change before we understand just how dangerous this moment is for all of our society,” Mirvis added.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated that he was appalled by the attacks and pledged that those responsible will be found and brought to justice.

“This is abhorrent and it will not be tolerated. Attacks on our Jewish community are attacks on Britain,” Starmer said.