Two Jewish men have been stabbed in the Golders Green area of north London, prompting a major police response and a counter-terrorism investigation.
The victims, aged in their 70s and 30s, were attacked in separate incidents and are currently in stable condition in hospital, according to the Metropolitan Police.
Police said a 45-year-old suspect was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after being subdued with a Taser. Authorities confirmed the man also attempted to stab police officers during the incident.
The attack unfolded along Golders Green Road and nearby streets, with a local resident reporting that one victim was stabbed outside shops, while another was attacked near a synagogue.
Jewish community security group Shomrim said its volunteers responded quickly after receiving reports of a man running along the high street attempting to stab Jewish residents. The group said it detained the suspect before police arrived.
Emergency responders from Hatzola treated the victims at the scene before they were taken to hospital.
Authorities have not yet confirmed the suspect’s background, saying investigations are ongoing to establish his identity, motive and any potential links to terrorism.
“The investigation is being led by specialist officers from Counter Terrorism Policing to establish the full circumstances and any links to terrorism,” police said in a statement.
The incident has drawn strong reactions from political leaders across the United Kingdom.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the attack as “deeply concerning” and later said it was “utterly appalling,” adding that “attacks on our Jewish community are attacks on Britain.”
London Mayor Sadiq Khan confirmed he is in close contact with police and said additional patrols have been deployed in the area to reassure the public.
Opposition Leader Kemi Badenoch described the incident as part of what she called an “epidemic of violence” against Jewish people, while Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp termed it an “appalling antisemitic attack.”
Local MP Sarah Sackman said she was engaging government officials following the incident, condemning the targeting of Jewish residents.
“It is unconscionable that Jews are being targeted in this way,” she said.
Police have increased high-visibility patrols in Golders Green as investigations continue, with authorities yet to confirm whether additional suspects are being sought.
