Antisemitic Arson Attack Targets Jewish Ambulances in London

London – Four ambulances belonging to a Jewish community ambulance service were set ablaze in north London in the early hours of Monday, March 23, 2026, prompting condemnation from Prime Minister Keir Starmer and a police investigation as an antisemitic hate crime.

Details of the Attack

The London Fire Brigade was alerted to the fire at Highfield Court in Golders Green at 1:40 am GMT. Approximately 40 firefighters responded to the scene, discovering that multiple cylinders on the vehicles had exploded, causing damage to windows in a nearby building. The targeted vehicles were identified as Hatzalah ambulances, operated by the Jewish Community Ambulance service.

Police are currently examining CCTV footage and online videos to identify three suspects believed to be involved in the arson. No arrests have been made at this time.

Condemnation and Investigation

Prime Minister Keir Starmer swiftly condemned the attack as a “deeply shocking antisemitic arson attack,” stating, “My thoughts are with the Jewish community who are waking up this morning to this horrific news. Anti-Semitism has no place in our society.”

The Metropolitan Police has confirmed that the incident is being treated as an antisemitic hate crime. Superintendent Sarah Jackson stated that the investigation is ongoing.

Jewish community leaders have also voiced their outrage. Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis described the targeting of the volunteer service as “particularly sickening.” Shomrim North West London, a volunteer neighbourhood watch group, branded the arson a “targeted and deeply concerning incident affecting a vital emergency service.”

Hatzalah Ambulance Service

Hatzalah was established in 1979 and operates as a volunteer-run service, providing free medical transportation and emergency response to the Jewish community in North London.

Broader Context

Monitoring groups have reported an increase in antisemitic incidents in Britain in recent years. The Community Security Trust (CST) is assisting police with their inquiries.