Two masked men threw two petrol bombs and a brick at the Finchley Reform Synagogue in north London early Wednesday morning, in an incident being investigated as a suspected antisemitic hate crime. Neither bottle ignited, and no damage or injuries were reported, according to the Metropolitan Police and Community Security Trust.
Immediate Action & Core Facts
The attack occurred shortly after midnight, with the suspects wearing dark clothing and balaclavas. Police have not made any arrests as of Wednesday evening and are appealing for witnesses and surveillance footage. A heightened police presence is expected in the area over the coming days.
Deeper Dive & Context
The incident follows a recent surge in antisemitic attacks in the UK, including an arson attack on Jewish ambulances in Golders Green last month. Three individuals—Hamza Iqbal, 20, Rehan Khan, 19, and a 17-year-old boy—were charged in connection with that attack.
Community Response
Finchley MP Sarah Sackman condemned the attack, stating that British Jews should be free to live without fear. The synagogue leadership expressed gratitude for community support and reaffirmed their commitment to their faith despite the threat.
Investigation Details
Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams emphasized the seriousness of the incident and the urgency of the investigation. Counter Terrorism Police are assisting in the probe. The attack comes amid heightened tensions, with monitoring groups reporting a rise in antisemitic incidents since the Israel-Hamas conflict began.
Broader Context
The Community Security Trust recorded 3,700 antisemitic incidents in the UK last year, a 4% increase from 2024. The attack also follows a deadly synagogue shooting in Manchester in October 2025, which heightened community anxieties.