UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting pledged full government support for the Jewish community following the March 23, 2026, arson attack on Hatzola ambulances in Golders Green, London. Speaking at a press conference, Streeting emphasized that “the Jewish community will not face up to this hatred alone” and confirmed that the government will fund replacement ambulances for the volunteer emergency service. The vehicles, which provide rapid response alongside the NHS, were destroyed in a targeted attack outside a synagogue, but fortunately, no injuries occurred.

Streeting highlighted the broader intent behind the attack, stating, “The aim of these attackers is clear. They want Jewish people in this country to live smaller lives, to live less Jewish lives, to be less visible as Jewish people, to fear going about Jewish life.” He stressed that while the Jewish community will not be intimidated, it is the responsibility of all citizens to stand against such acts. The remarks framed the incident as not only an attack on a minority community but also a challenge to shared British values of tolerance and respect.

The Health Secretary’s statements echoed earlier comments by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who condemned the attack and pledged government support. Streeting emphasized solidarity, ensuring that the essential work performed by Hatzola volunteers—operating without taxpayer funding prior to the incident—would continue without disruption. The arson attack is being investigated by counter-terrorism police as a hate crime, with authorities reviewing CCTV footage and witness accounts.

The destruction of the ambulances underscores the rising threat of antisemitic incidents in the UK and highlights the importance of proactive community protection. Hatzola plays a critical role in providing emergency medical services to both Jewish and broader communities, and their rapid replacement demonstrates the government’s commitment to ensuring public safety. Streeting’s message reinforced that attacks against minority communities are attacks on the core values of British society.

As investigations continue, authorities have called for vigilance and public cooperation. The government’s response sends a strong signal that hate crimes will not be tolerated and that communities targeted by such attacks can rely on both official support and societal solidarity. The press conference and accompanying Sky News video clip focused on this pledge, underscoring a unified stance against antisemitism in the UK.