Keir Starmer pledges to address the underlying causes of extremism and antisemitism in the wake of a terrorist assault on a Jewish community in north London. The Prime Minister emphasizes the need for increased funding to ensure the security of Jewish individuals and announces his intention to promptly visit Golders Green following the distressing attack. He commits to engaging with law enforcement agencies in meetings scheduled for the following day subsequent to an emergency Cobra meeting held earlier in the day.
Earlier today, two Jewish men, aged 76 and 34, were victims of a terrorist attack in the area. Both individuals are currently in stable condition receiving treatment at a hospital. Jewish community leaders are advocating for more stringent measures against anti-Semitic violence following the double stabbing incident around 11:15 am, which has been officially labeled as a terrorist act.
In a statement made later in the evening, Keir Starmer expresses his dismay over the attack and extends thoughts and support to the victims, their families, and loved ones. He acknowledges the ongoing anxiety within the community due to a series of anti-Semitic incidents and pledges to visit the affected area at the earliest opportunity.
Starmer discloses that he convened a Cobra meeting earlier in the day with key stakeholders such as the Home Secretary, the London mayor, and the Metropolitan Police Commissioner to coordinate response efforts and enhance security measures. He mentions having consulted with the Community Security Trust, an organization dedicated to safeguarding the Jewish community, stressing the need for increased funding to ensure adequate protection.
Regarding the government’s response, the Prime Minister reassures actions being taken concerning security, social cohesion, and extremism. He acknowledges the heightened anxiety and vulnerability felt by the Jewish community, emphasizing the government’s commitment to ensuring their safety and addressing the root causes of anti-Semitism and extremism.
Law enforcement authorities are actively working to ascertain the nationality and background of the attacker responsible for the incident. The individual, who was apprehended on suspicion of attempted murder, remains in custody following a medical assessment at the hospital, as confirmed by Metropolitan Police chief Sir Mark Rowley.