By COLlive reporter
Chabad Lubavitch UK issued a strong statement expressing “deep shock and unequivocal condemnation” following the arson attack targeting Hatzolah North West ambulances in London.
The organization, which represents all Chabad centers and institutions in England, described the incident as “an attack on a service that protects the entire community” and called for those responsible to be swiftly brought to justice.
The attack occurred in the early hours of Monday morning in the Golders Green area of north London, where multiple Hatzolah ambulances were set on fire while parked near a shul.
The blaze triggered explosions from medical equipment stored inside the vehicles and caused damage to nearby buildings, though no injuries were reported.
Authorities have launched a major investigation, treating the incident as a suspected hate crime, with counter-terrorism police involved.
Two suspects have been arrested, and officials are examining whether additional individuals were connected to the attack. The destruction of the emergency vehicles has significantly impacted Hatzolah North West’s ability to respond to calls in the area.
The full statement from Chabad Lubavitch UK:
Chabad Lubavitch UK expresses its deep shock and unequivocal condemnation following the arson attack on Hatzolah North West ambulances.
Hatzolah is a vital, life-saving emergency service whose dedicated volunteers provide rapid medical assistance to all members of the public, regardless of background. Their work embodies the very best of our society, selflessness, compassion and an unwavering commitment to preserving life.
This was not only an act of destruction; it was an attack on a service that protects the entire community. Such actions are profoundly disturbing and have no place in a civilised society.
We stand in full solidarity with Hatzolah North West, its volunteers and all who depend on their care, and we pay tribute to their extraordinary dedication and resilience.
As we approach Pesach, we are reminded of the words we sing at the Seder in V’hi She’amdah: “This [promise of G-d’s protection to Abraham] has stood by our ancestors and by us: for in every generation there arise those who seek our destruction, yet the Holy One, blessed be He, delivers us from their hands.” This is not only a memory of the past, but a living truth. The Jewish people endure because our existence is rooted in something eternal and because G-d’s promise ensures that light, life and goodness will ultimately prevail.
We urge the authorities to bring those responsible swiftly to justice and
onfront the hatred behind such acts.
At a time like this, our response must be to increase in acts of goodness and kindness, bringing more light into the world. We encourage everyone to volunteer, give charity and actively support Hatzolah North West’s emergency response efforts.
If you are Jewish, take this moment to reach out, invite another Jew to your Seder, especially someone who might otherwise be alone, and ensure that the message of freedom, faith, and continuity is shared and strengthened.
To contribute directly, please support their campaign: charityextra.com/hatzola-emergency
In doing so, we transform darkness into light and reaffirm our shared commitment to building a safer, stronger, and more compassionate society for all.
