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UK PM Starmer appeals against antisemitism after Golders Green knife attack
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer visited Golders Green after a knife attack in which two Jewish men were stabbed. He condemned antisemitism, called the fear in Britain’s Jewish community real, and outlined government measures to curb antisemitic extremism and protect Jewish life.
Why It Matters
The event highlights rising concerns about antisemitism in Britain and signals government policy actions on policing, extremism, and state actors to safeguard Jewish communities.
Timeline
2 Events
Prime Minister visits scene and calls for action against antisemitism
April 30, 2026
On April 30, 2026, Prime Minister Keir Starmer visited the Golders Green scene and was heckled by protesters. He then delivered a live televised address from 10 Downing Street, stating that the attack is not a one-off and that many Jews feel scared to practice their faith or identify as Jewish. He described antisemitism as an old hatred and urged decisive government action, including prosecuting calls to "globalise the intifada" which he said resemble terrorism against Jews. He outlined measures already in place: stronger police presence and security, powers to shut down charities promoting antisemitic extremism, barring hate preachers from entering the country, speeding up sentencing for antisemitic attacks, and fast-tracking powers against malign state actors such as Iran.
Knife attack in Golders Green
April 29, 2026
On April 29, 2026, a knife attack occurred in Golders Green, north-west London, in which two Jewish men, aged 76 and 34, were stabbed. The assailant, a 45-year-old Somalia-born British man named Essa Suleiman, was arrested in connection with the incident.