The Metropolitan Police have detained a 17-year-old boy and a 19-year-old man in connection with the arson assault on Kenton United Synagogue in Harrow, north-west London, on Sunday.
A man was spotted igniting a bag in the doorway, which was later discovered to contain three bottles containing liquids. The shopfront sustained minor damage, but no injuries were recorded.
We are seeing a concerted campaign against Londoners and, specifically, against British Jews.
Authorities claimed the latest incident occurred overnight at Kenton United Synagogue in Harrow. The structure experienced smoke damage, but no one was injured, according to officials.
Series of Arson Attacks Targeting Jewish Sites
According to Metropolitan Police deputy commissioner Matt Jukes, 15 people have been arrested in connection with a series of six incidents in which Jewish-owned businesses in London have been attacked in recent weeks. Counter-terrorism officials are investigating fires against synagogues and other Jewish-related facilities, as well as an attack on a Persian-language media outlet. No one was wounded in the blazes, which occurred within a few miles of each other.
The most catastrophic incident occurred on March 23, when four ambulances belonging to a Jewish charity were set on fire in the Golders Green district. The Finchley Reform Synagogue was set on fire, and a company in northwest London was also targeted in what police called an antisemitic hate crime. Authorities say they are witnessing a deliberate effort against Londoners, notably British Jews.
This latest arson at Kenton United Synagogue marks the third similar event in the past week, adding to growing concerns over repeated targeting of Jewish community sites across northwest London.
Police continue to search for connections between the incidents while extra officers have been deployed to the area to reassure the public.
The Jewish community in the UK has expressed deep unease as these attacks persist without causing any physical injuries but creating significant fear and a strong sense of intimidation, leaving many feeling unsafe in their own neighbourhoods and places of worship despite the visible increase in police presence.
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Suspected Iranian Links and Terror Investigation
Vicki Evans, Deputy Assistant Commissioner, said the attacks were claimed online by a group called Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia. Police said they are aware of rumors that the group may have ties to Iran and are investigating that possibility.
Authorities are looking into whether the Iranian leadership is using criminal proxies to carry out attacks in London. The group has claimed responsibility for assaults in Belgium, the Netherlands, and London. Experts believe the group could be a front for Iranian hybrid operations that allow for plausible deniability.
Investigators are looking into whether the persons involved were hired to carry out the attacks. Counter-terrorism police remain alert to the threat of Iranian hostile activity in the UK.
MI5 has previously disrupted more than 20 potentially lethal Iran-backed plots, highlighting ongoing concerns over foreign interference.
Police have described some perpetrators as potential 'thugs for hire' who may face justice alone if those who recruited them abandon them.
Security Concerns and Community Impact
Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis said a sustained campaign of violence and intimidation against the Jewish community of the UK is gathering momentum. He said that while no lives have been lost, the situation is dangerous for society.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said he was appalled by the attacks and pledged that those responsible will be found and brought to justice.
Police have deployed extra uniformed and plainclothes officers to northwest London following the incidents.
Authorities also responded to a video threat claiming Israel’s London embassy would be attacked with drones, though no harmful materials were found.
The attacks have heightened fears within the British Jewish community amid rising antisemitic incidents.
Police Response and Ongoing Investigation
The Metropolitan Police continue their search and investigation into the Kenton United Synagogue arson and linked cases.
Arrests in the broader series include individuals ranging from teenagers to those in their 40s, with several already charged.
Counter-terrorism officers are examining potential organized connections or hired criminal activity behind the attacks.
No injuries have been reported across the incidents, but the deliberate nature has prompted a strong policing response.
Officials emphasize that anyone considering such crimes will face serious consequences in court.
Broader Context of Antisemitic Incidents in the UK
These events form part of a worrying trend of attacks on Jewish sites in London, raising alarms about community safety.
The incidents have occurred close together geographically, mostly in northwest London areas with significant Jewish populations.
UK authorities continue to monitor for any escalation linked to Middle East tensions.
Community leaders call for vigilance and strong action to protect religious sites and prevent further intimidation.
The Metropolitan Police stress their commitment to tackling hate crime and foreign interference.
Read more in our World section for similar stories and expert analysis.
David Martinez
World Affairs Reporter
David Martinez is a world affairs journalist with expertise in international relations, conflict reporting, and global humanitarian issues. He has reported from conflict zones and has an eye for the political dynamics of international crises.
