The United Kingdom's terrorism threat level has been escalated to 'severe', indicating that an attack is now considered 'highly likely'. This decision was made by the Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre (JTAC) on Thursday, April 30, in response to the stabbing incident in Golders Green, north London.
Previously, the threat level stood at 'substantial', which meant an attack was 'likely'. The change reflects heightened concerns following the attack on two Jewish men, aged 76 and 34, who were stabbed at 11:16 AM on Wednesday, April 29. Both victims were taken to hospital and remain in a stable condition.
The suspect, a 45-year-old British national born in Somalia, also attempted to stab police officers before being subdued with a Taser. He was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and, after being discharged from hospital, is now in police custody at a London station.
The stabbing has been formally declared a terrorist incident. It follows a recent spate of attacks in Jewish neighborhoods. Police confirmed that the suspect had been previously reported to Prevent, the government's anti-extremism program, following a referral in 2020. However, the case was closed later that same year.
Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant but calm. Increased patrols are being deployed in key locations, particularly in areas with significant Jewish communities, to ensure public safety.
