A kosher restaurant in north-west London fell victim to vandalism, with "Free Palestine" graffiti appearing on nearby bridges following the recent Hamas attacks on Israel. The glass entrance of the Jewish-run eatery in Golders Green was shattered on a Monday morning, in what locals suspect to be an anti-Semitic incident.
Furthermore, the cash register was reported stolen.
While the incident has raised concerns within the community, the police, for now, do not consider it a hate crime after reviewing CCTV footage. However, anti-Semitic abuse from passing vehicles had occurred in the area on the preceding Sunday, targeting Jewish individuals, including those returning from the synagogue after observing the Sabbath.
To offer reassurance to the shaken locals, Tom Tugendhat, the Minister of State for Security, visited the vandalized restaurant, Pita, in Golders Green. He engaged with Hasidic Jewish teenagers, who expressed their dismay about the incident. Nearby, a bridge displayed the words "Free Palestine."
Mike Freer, the MP for Finchley and Golders Green, emphasized Mr. Tugendhat's visit as a sign of support for the Jewish community, which has experienced hostility recently. He noted that such incidents tend to escalate when tensions rise in Israel.
Although the police have not made any arrests related to the vandalism and burglary, Mr. Freer believes that the timing of the incident, coinciding with events in Israel, raises suspicion of anti-Semitism.
Claudia Mendoza, co-chief executive of the Jewish Leadership Council, appreciated Mr. Tugendhat's visit as a gesture against such unacceptable behavior. She acknowledged the anxiety among the Jewish community and noted the influx of concerns and questions regarding security.
The Met Police responded to the incident, reporting a burglary and damage at the restaurant in Golders Green Road. A cash register was reported stolen, and CCTV footage was examined.
Currently, the incident is not categorized as a hate crime, but investigations are ongoing, while the community remains apprehensive about its safety.
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