ByMICHAEL STARR

Amid a spate of arson attacks against Jewish, Israeli, and Iranian dissident sites in the United Kingdom, the United States Embassy in London issued on Friday a security alert for Americans in Britain visiting Jewish and US institutions.

"The US Embassy in London notes recent attacks and threats targeting Jewish and American institutions in the United Kingdom and Europe," read the alert. "US citizens, particularly those visiting institutions serving Jewish or American interests, should remain alert and exercise increased caution."

The embassy advised American citizens to be aware of their surroundings when attending Jewish places of worship, religious sites, and community centers.

Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia (HAYI), a suspected Iranian front group claiming responsibility for recent incidents in the UK, issued on Thursday a cryptic threat on Iranian affiliated channels.

"Seventy two hours. The time limit is approaching its end. No execution equals no second chance. Time is running out. Move now before it's too late," read the graphic.

Local community members talk with police officers from London's Metropolitan Police following a suspected antisemitic arson attack in Golders Green, London, March 23, 2026.
Local community members talk with police officers from London's Metropolitan Police following a suspected antisemitic arson attack in Golders Green, London, March 23, 2026. (credit: REUTERS/Isabel Infantes)

Hatzalah ambulance arson kicks off string of attacks

Attacks began with the March 23 arson of four Hatzalah ambulances in the Golders Green area.

Last Wednesday, arsonists attempted to attack the Finchley Reform Synagogue by placing bottles with accelerants next to the synagogue and throwing a brick at the alleged firebomb. Later that day an arson attack was attempted against the office of Iran International, with suspected arsonists throwing a burning container into the carpark of the news outlet. The fire died out on its own.

A building that once was the premises of a Jewish group, still with the organization's name on the window, was the target of a Friday arson attempt. Three bottles containing accelerants were placed next to a building and set alight. The bottles failed to fully ignite, but minor damage was caused to the shopfront. The same day jars with an unknown substance, later revealed to be non hazardous, were discovered near the Israeli embassy.

On Sunday the Kenton United Synagogue was firebombed, causing minor smoke damage to a room, but no injuries.