Counter-terror police are leading the investigation into an anti-Semitic firebomb attack feared to have been orchestrated by Iran.
Scotland Yard confirmed that officers with “specialist expertise” were investigating the arson, in which four ambulances were set on fire outside a synagogue in Golders Green, London, on Monday morning.
Israeli embassy sources told The Telegraph that the firebombing had the hallmarks of an Iran-backed attack.
A video claiming responsibility for the firebombing has emerged on social media and is believed to be by a group linked to Tehran.
The arson, which is being treated as a hate crime, will raise concerns that Iran is mounting a concerted campaign of attacks across Europe following similar incidents in recent weeks.
Two Iranian immigrants were charged last week with spying on Jews in London for Tehran. A separate Iranian man will appear in court on Monday after he and an accomplice allegedly tried to enter Britain’s most important nuclear base.
Det Ch Supt Luke Williams, of the Metropolitan Police, said the force was looking into three suspects seen approaching the ambulances on Highfield Road at around 1.45am on Monday.
He said: “CCTV footage appears to show three people in hoods pouring an accelerant on to the vehicles before igniting them and fleeing.
“While this has not been declared a terrorist incident at this stage, the investigation is now being led by counter-terrorism policing with all the specialist expertise they bring, and all lines of enquiry remain open.
“We are aware of an online claim from a group taking responsibility for this attack. Establishing the authenticity and accuracy of this claim will be a priority for the investigation team, but it is not something we can confirm at this point.”
Shabana Mahmood, the Home Secretary, also offered her support. “I am appalled at the arson attack on ambulances in north London overnight. Anyone with knowledge of this horrific incident should contact the police,” she said.
“My message to our Jewish community is clear – we stand with you against the unacceptable scourge of anti-Semitism. My thanks to the professionalism of the emergency responders tackling the blaze.”
Speaking at the scene, Wes Streeting said the Government would fund replacement ambulances for Hatzola Northwest, adding: “Those responsible for this attack must know that the Jewish community will not face up to this hatred alone, the whole country will stand with them.”
As he spoke, the Health Secretary was heckled by a member of the public, who said: “You’re not wanted here. Your party caused this.”
A fundraiser set up by Hatzola Northwest to fund new ambulances and strengthen security has already raised around £350,000.
A spokesman for the Israeli embassy said: “Anti-Semitism is rampant on the streets of London… Firebombing ambulances is not an anomaly, it is the consequence after years of hate-filled marches, incitement and intimidation being tolerated in plain sight.
“Enough is enough. There must be a thorough investigation and decisive action to put an end to this climate of intimidation before it spirals further. Silence and inaction are no longer an option.”