Four individuals face Crown Court over Jewish ambulance arson attack

Three men and a 17-year-old boy, whose identity remains confidential due to legal protections, appeared in court alongside a teenager. The group was charged in connection with an arson incident targeting ambulances linked to the Jewish community in northwest London. The attack, which occurred on 23 March, left four vehicles damaged and sparked explosions in Golders Green. The charity Hatzola operates the ambulances, and the fire caused approximately £1 million in losses, including damage to nearby residences and a synagogue.

The accused included Hamza Iqbal, 20, Rehan Khan, 19, and Judex Atshatshi, 18. Prosecutors stated the act was a deliberate strike against the Jewish community, highlighting the intent behind the attack. Three individuals are charged with arson that disregarded the risk of endangering lives, while Atshatshi faces additional charges of arson with intent to harm and reckless endangerment. A fourth 18-year-old, arrested on the same day for suspected conspiracy to commit arson with life-threatening intent, has been granted bail pending further inquiry.

Metropolitan Police counter-terrorism units are examining whether the incident is tied to other recent attacks on Jewish-related targets in the city. These include assaults on two synagogues in north London and a Jewish business. Investigators are also considering claims the attacks may have been organized by an Iranian-connected group, which has shared online videos about the incidents. The case continues as authorities seek to determine the broader context of the crime.

Additional details

The vehicles were fully equipped with medical supplies when they were set ablaze. A blue Toyota Avensis was reportedly used as a vantage point by one of the suspects. The preliminary hearing, held at the Old Bailey, concluded with all four defendants remanded in custody until a plea session on 28 August. The BBC London team invites listeners to engage with their content via Sounds, Facebook, X, and Instagram for updates on the case.

Prosecutors stated the act was a deliberate strike against the Jewish community, highlighting the intent behind the attack.