Met Police probe whether Iran-linked proxies behind string of arson attacks on Jewish sites and Iran International in London

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 10:27:02 +0000
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by Elena Vance -

Metropolitan Police counter-terrorism unit probes series of arson attacks in northwest London

London — The Metropolitan Police’s counter-terrorism unit is leading an investigation into a series of arson and attempted-arson attacks targeting Jewish sites and a Persian-language media organisation in northwest London, the force said.

Detectives said they are exploring whether the incidents may be linked to Iranian proxies as inquiries continue into the recent string of attacks, which have taken place in areas including Golders Green, Hendon, Wembley and Harrow.

Two people, a 19-year-old and a 17-year-old, were arrested overnight in connection with an arson attack at Kenton United Synagogue in Harrow. Separately, three people were charged in relation to an earlier arson attack on the Iran International Persian-language media organisation in London.

The incidents reported by police and other outlets include torched ambulances belonging to a Jewish charity in late March, an attempted arson at a building formerly used by the Jewish community on April 18, an attempted firebombing at Kenton United Synagogue on April 19, and an ignited container thrown into the Iran International offices earlier in April. “As the conflict in the Middle East continues to evolve, Counter Terrorism Policing and our partners remain alive to the threat of Iranian state aggression in the UK,” the Metropolitan Police said.