**
In a shocking incident that has sent ripples through the community, two Jewish men were attacked in Golders Green, north London, in what police have classified as a terrorist act. The victims, aged 34 and 76, are currently in stable condition at a local hospital, while a 45-year-old man has been apprehended in connection with the stabbings. This attack follows a troubling trend of antisemitic incidents in the capital, raising urgent questions about community safety and government response.
Details of the Attack
The Metropolitan Police responded promptly to emergency calls reporting the stabbings, which occurred around 11:16 BST on Wednesday. Initial CCTV footage from Highfield Avenue shows the suspect approaching the victims before launching the attack. A second video captured the same individual pursuing one of the men along the pavement before he was seen assaulting a victim waiting at a bus stop. The suspect was eventually subdued by police, who used a Taser to disarm him before administering first aid.
The attack has been described as particularly alarming given its location and the visible identity of the victims, who were targeted solely based on their Jewish faith. This incident has sparked a wave of concern regarding the safety of Jewish communities across the UK.
The Victims’ Conditions
The victims have been identified as Shloime Rand, 34, and Moshe Shine, 76. Rabbi Levi Schapiro from the Jewish Community Council has visited both men in hospital. While Shine’s injuries are deemed more severe, medical staff remain hopeful for his full recovery. Rand, reflecting on his experience, expressed gratitude for surviving the attack, stating, “I feel like God’s given me back my life.” He also voiced his concerns about the rising antisemitism in the UK, insisting that mere statements of condemnation from government officials are insufficient. “It has to be changed in a very different way to get the streets to be safe again,” he stated.
The families of both men have voiced their horror at the events, with Rand’s mother expressing disbelief that such violence could occur in their community. Friends of the victims have also praised their character, highlighting their peaceful nature and contribution to the community.
Profile of the Suspect
The individual arrested has been named as Essa Suleiman, a 45-year-old British national of Somali descent. He was reportedly referred to the government’s counter-terrorism Prevent programme in 2020, a referral that was closed within the same year. Police have stated that Suleiman has a history of violent behaviour and mental health concerns. After being treated for injuries sustained during his arrest, he was taken into custody, where he remains under investigation for attempted murder.
Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley highlighted the seriousness of the situation, noting that officers approached a suspect they believed posed an ongoing threat. “We’re also working with our partners in the security services to ensure we have a full intelligence picture,” he added, indicating that the investigation will explore whether the attack was specifically aimed at the Jewish community.
Community and Political Response
The attack has elicited strong reactions from various leaders and community representatives. Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis stated that the incident underscores the vulnerability of visibly Jewish individuals in society. He urged for more robust actions to protect the Jewish community. London Mayor Sadiq Khan expressed his outrage, stating that it is unacceptable for Jewish people to live in fear.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak faced criticism during a visit to the scene, with calls for more substantial measures to combat the growing threat of antisemitism. The UK’s terrorism threat level has been raised to “severe,” indicating that another attack is highly likely, a reflection of broader concerns about rising extremist threats in the country.
In response to the attack, the government has pledged an additional £25 million to enhance security for Jewish communities, including increased police patrols and protection measures around synagogues and community centres. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood called the situation an emergency and reiterated the need for collective action against antisemitism.
Why it Matters
This violent event is not just an isolated incident but a stark reminder of the increasing antisemitism that threatens the very fabric of British society. The Golders Green stabbings highlight a critical need for heightened security and more effective measures to protect vulnerable communities. As fears grow over safety and the normalization of hate-driven violence, it is imperative that both government and society stand united against all forms of discrimination to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background or beliefs, can live without fear.