Three Charged in London Jewish Ambulance Arson Attack

Three people have been charged in connection with an arson attack that destroyed four ambulances belonging to Hatzola, a Jewish volunteer-led ambulance service in London. The suspects are scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Saturday, April 4, 2026.

The defendants include 20-year-old Hamza Iqbal and 19-year-old Rehan Khan, both British nationals from Leyton, and a 17-year-old boy from Walthamstow who holds dual British and Pakistani nationality. The 17-year-old cannot be named for legal reasons.

All three individuals have been charged with arson with intent to damage property and being reckless as to whether life would be endangered.

Details of the Attack

The incident occurred in the early hours of March 23, 2026, in the Golders Green area of north-west London. Four Hatzola ambulances were set on fire while parked in the car park of a synagogue.

The intensity of the fire caused gas canisters stored within the vehicles to explode, resulting in the ambulances being left as burnt-out remains.

Hatzola is a Jewish volunteer-led group that provides medical treatment to patients regardless of their faith.

Investigation and Arrests

The investigation is being led by Counter Terrorism Policing London (CTPL). Despite the involvement of counter-terror police, the Metropolitan Police stated that the incident has not been declared as terrorism at this stage.

The three charged suspects were arrested on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at three different properties located in east London. Following the arrests, officers from CTPL conducted searches at these addresses.

In addition to the three current charges, two other men, aged 45 and 47, were arrested in connection with the case last week. Both were released on bail until late April.

Since this appalling attack last week, we have been working continuously to investigate and identify those responsible.

Cdr Helen Flanagan, head of Counter Terrorism Policing London

Cdr Flanagan also noted that the support received from the local community following the attack has been incredible.

Legal Proceedings and Security Measures

Frank Ferguson, head of the Crown Prosecution Service’s special crime and counter terrorism division, reminded the public that criminal proceedings against the defendants are active and that they maintain the right to a fair trial.

In response to the attack, the Metropolitan Police have increased patrols in areas with large Jewish populations to ensure public safety.