Today in Focus Ambulance arson attack: what we know so far – The Latest
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Mar 24, 2026 Daniel Boffey, chief reporter at The Guardian, gives on-the-ground analysis of the Golders Green arson attack on Jewish ambulances. He recounts CCTV details and explosive damage. He outlines the investigation, discusses the HAYI group's claims and credibility, and explores the incident's impact on local Jewish communities and wider tensions.
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Arson Method Caused Explosive Damage
- CCTV shows three hooded people at 1:45am pouring accelerant and lighting rags around four Hatsola Northwest ambulances parked by Mazika synagogue.
- Oxygen cylinders exploded, shattering nearby flat windows and singeing carpets, amplifying the attack's danger and drama.
New Group HAYI Claims Multiple Attacks
- Harakat al-Sharab al-Yamin al-Islamiyah (HAYI) emerged publicly on 9 March claiming multiple Europe incidents, posting videos and a Telegram channel and logo.
- Claims link to pro‑Iranian Shia militia channels, but credibility varies: some rapid, plausible videos and other spurious claims.
Attribution Remains Unclear Between Claims And State Links
- Attribution is uncertain: HAYI could have directly carried out attacks, falsely claimed them, or acted as a conduit for Iran-linked proxies.
- UK security notes many foiled Iranian‑backed plots since 2024, often using distant proxies or organized crime.