Two stabbed, arrest made after stabbing attack in city’s north.
Updated ,first published
London: Two men were stabbed and the suspected attacker was detained on suspicion of attempted murder in an anti-Semitic attack that sparked outrage over attacks on the Jewish community in London.
Political leaders condemned the stabbings, which followed a series of arson attacks on synagogues and Jewish organizations, and the Israeli government called for further action to stop the threats.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed the attack in London on Wednesday morning (around 10pm AEST) and said officers responded after hearing people had been stabbed in Highfield Avenue, Golders Green, which has a large Jewish population in the north of the city.
“Local officers and armed officers attended, as well as the London Ambulance Service,” police said.
“The suspect also attempted to stab police officers and was tasered before being arrested. No police officers were injured.
“Two men, one in his 70s and one in his 30s, were treated at the scene for stab wounds. They were taken to hospital and their condition was stated to be stable.
“A 45-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder. He was taken into custody, where he is staying. We are trying to determine his nationality and background.”
The investigation is being carried out by specialist officers from the Counter Terrorism Unit, underscoring concern over the recent series of attacks that have brought terror to members of the Jewish community.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer thanked Jewish groups and police for their quick action.
“The anti-Semitic attack in Golders Green is utterly appalling. Attacks on our Jewish community are attacks on Britain,” he said.
Security organization Shomrim said a suspect “was seen running along Golders Green Road with a knife and trying to stab Jews in the public” on Wednesday morning.
He said the suspect was detained by Shomrim members and then arrested by police, who used a stun gun on the man.
Another organization, the Community Safety Foundation, said a man was arrested after the stabbing attack. There was no immediate confirmation from police.
The incident follows arson attacks targeting Jewish sites in London in recent weeks, including a synagogue in Golders Green and a charity’s ambulances.
An Iranian terrorist group claimed responsibility for setting fire to Jewish ambulances near a British synagogue, smashing windows and explosions on a residential street.
Counterterrorism officials are investigating whether the arson attacks were the work of Iranian proxies.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry posted a video on social media immediately after the attack showing a man being attacked at a bus stop and said the British government should have done more to stop the problem.
“After attacks on synagogues, Jewish institutions, community ambulances and now targeting Jews in Golders Green, the UK government can no longer claim it is under control,” the ministry said.
“Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s statements are no substitute for confronting the roots of growing antisemitism in the UK.
“British Jews should not need security patrols and emergency volunteers to live openly as Jews. Enough words. The UK must act decisively and urgently.”
with AP
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David Crowe is the European correspondent for The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age.Connect with: X or email.
