Kamal Ghorui
Indian-origin British MP Priti Patel has strongly condemned the arson attack on ambulances serving the Jewish community in north London, calling it a “dark moment” for the country.Taking to X (formerly Twitter), the Opposition Conservative MP and UK shadow foreign secretary said:“So important to be in Golders Green with the Jewish community today after the despicable antisemitic attack on Hatzola ambulances. This is a dark moment for our country. The fear that Jews feel now in Britain is shocking. It must be meaningfully addressed with serious action.” She also thanked emergency responders and backed counter-terror police, adding: “I thank the emergency services I met today in North London for their response and back our counter-terror police as they investigate.”Speaking to GB News, Patel described the incident as “beyond comprehension” and said she was deeply shaken.“I find this incomprehensible. This is a community that I know very well,” she said, highlighting her personal connection to the Jewish community.Calling the attack “absolutely terrible,” she stressed that the safety and security of Jewish people must be paramount. She also described the targeting of a volunteer ambulance service as “abhorrent.”UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the incident, calling it a “deeply shocking antisemitic arson attack.”He asserted that “antisemitism has no place in our society,” as authorities launched an investigation into the incident.
What happened in Golders Green
The attack took place in Golders Green, an area known for its large Jewish community.Four ambulances belonging to Hatzola Northwest, a Jewish volunteer emergency service, were set on fire in the early hours of Monday. Authorities believe the vehicles were deliberately targeted in what is being treated as an antisemitic hate crime.The blaze triggered explosions from gas cylinders inside the ambulances, shattering nearby windows and prompting evacuations. Around 40 firefighters and multiple fire engines were deployed to bring the fire under control. No injuries were reported.The Metropolitan Police said CCTV footage shows three suspects setting one of the ambulances alight before fleeing. No arrests have been made so far, and investigations are ongoing.Additional patrols have been deployed in the area to reassure residents, while community leaders have expressed shock over the attack. The incident has also raised concerns over rising antisemitism in the UK in recent years.
