Iran-Backed Group Responsible for London Hatzolah Attack

An Iran-aligned militant group has claimed responsibility for the firebombing of Jewish ambulances outside a synagogue in north London, in what authorities are treating as a serious anti-Semitic attack with possible international links.

The attack took place shortly after 1:30 a.m. in Golders Green, where four ambulances operated by Hatzola, a volunteer Jewish emergency medical service, were set on fire. Explosions from onboard gas cylinders damaged nearby buildings and forced the evacuation of residents, though no injuries were reported.

The SITE Intelligence monitoring service said a group calling itself the Islamic Movement of the People of the Right Hand had claimed responsibility. According to the group’s statement, the London attack is part of a broader campaign, with similar arson incidents reportedly carried out in Belgium, Greece, and the Netherlands.

That claim, if verified, would point to a coordinated effort rather than an isolated act, raising concerns about a wider network targeting Jewish communities across Europe.

British counter-terror police are investigating the incident as a hate crime while also examining potential foreign involvement. The Metropolitan Police said officers are reviewing CCTV footage and searching for three suspects seen approaching the ambulances shortly before the fire was ignited.

Emergency services responded with six fire engines and around 40 firefighters, bringing the blaze under control by approximately 3:00 a.m. Windows in a nearby apartment block were shattered by the explosions, underscoring how close the incident came to causing casualties.

The targeting of Hatzola has drawn particular alarm. The organization provides free emergency medical care and transport within the Jewish community, making the attack not only symbolic but also operationally disruptive.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned what he called a “deeply shocking antisemitic arson attack,” saying the government stands with the Jewish community. “Antisemitism has no place in our society,” he said, adding that authorities would pursue those responsible.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan said police patrols in the area would be increased, while community leaders described the incident as part of a broader rise in threats.

Israel’s embassy in the UK called for decisive action, warning that such attacks are the result of sustained incitement and cannot be treated as isolated events. “Enough is enough,” the embassy said, urging a thorough investigation and stronger measures to protect Jewish communities.

The attack comes amid heightened tensions linked to ongoing conflict in the Middle East, as well as a series of recent security incidents in the UK involving Iranian nationals. Just last week, two individuals were charged with spying on Jewish targets in London, and authorities have previously warned of multiple Iran-linked plots on British soil.

While officials have not yet confirmed the authenticity of the militant group’s claim, the possibility of a coordinated campaign is likely to intensify pressure on British security services.

For now, investigators are focused on identifying the suspects and determining whether the attack was directed or inspired by actors linked to Tehran. Either way, the incident marks a significant escalation, both in method and in symbolism.

Setting fire to emergency vehicles serving a civilian community is not subtle messaging. It is meant to intimidate, disrupt, and signal reach.

The question now is whether this was a one-off act claimed for attention, or part of something far more organized and far more dangerous.