Man charged in synagogue fire amid terror investigation

A man has been charged with arson after a historic London synagogue was targeted amid a disturbing rise in antisemitism.

According to the BBC, Moses Edwards, 45, of Wanstead, faces a serious charge of arson with intent to endanger life after the 5 May attack in Whitechapel.

Emergency services, including the London Fire Brigade, were called to Nelson Street at 05:16 BST. The fire caused minor damage to a gate, with no injuries reported.

The case has taken a grave turn. The investigation is led by Counter Terrorism Policing London, suggesting fears of a wider, organised motive.

Officials are reportedly probing links between a recent wave of UK attacks and foreign states. Suspicion has fallen on Iran-backed proxy groups, reports suggest.

This arson is part of a frightening surge in antisemitism. The Met Police noted April saw the highest number of offences in the capital for two years.

In response, the Met has created a new community protection team. One hundred extra officers will be dedicated to safeguarding London's vulnerable Jewish communities.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has condemned the attacks, pledging tougher action to combat the rising tide of antisemitism affecting the UK.

For those unversed, the synagogue was founded in 1923 as the Nelson Street Sfardish Synagogue. It is a key historical landmark for London's East End Jews.

It ceased operations in 2020 after its roof collapsed. The building was being sold to the Ashaadibi Education and Cultural Centre, a local Somali Muslim organisation.

The centre strongly condemned the 'cowardly act of arson,' stating that an attack on any house of worship is an attack on all communities.

"An attack on a house of worship is an attack on all of us," the organisation declared, expressing solidarity with the Jewish community.

The synagogue’s last president, Leon Silver, whose family was connected to the shul for four generations, reportedly expressed his 'shock and horror' over the arson.

Other recent attacks included firebombing Jewish charity Hatzola's ambulances and an attempted arson at a Finchley synagogue.

A 52-year-old woman was also arrested as part of the police investigation on 10 May, though her alleged role has not yet been specified.

She has been released on bail until a date in August. Moses Edwards is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court later today.