Executive Mayor of Tower Hamlets has condemned this morning’s arson attack on a former synagogue in Nelson Street.
Police say Tower Hamlets Council’s CCTV shows that the attack at 5.08am was deliberate and are working with the council to investigate.
The former synagogue was founded in 1923 and has been closed for several years.
Executive Mayor Lutfur Rahman said:
"I am deeply shocked and saddened by this appalling antisemitic attack on the former East London Central Synagogue - a building which was sold after the synagogue had closed.
"I have contacted representatives from the former synagogue to offer my wholehearted support, and I want to express solidarity with the wider Jewish community.
"I urge anyone with information to urgently contact the police by calling 101. We are working with the Metropolitan Police and with our Interfaith Forum and Tension Monitoring Group to ensure enhanced security around the site of the former synagogue and to support Jewish residents and faith partners. There will be increased visible patrols by the police and our Tower Hamlets Enforcement Officers to reassure our residents.
"Tower Hamlets’ strength lies in our diversity, our history of welcoming all, our mutual respect for people of all faiths and none. Our East London community has a proud history of standing united against all forms of hatred and bigotry, from the Battle of Cable Street to today.
"We will not tolerate this attack, or any attempt to intimidate or threaten the local Jewish community. All residents of Tower Hamlets should feel safe and at home in our borough."
Police are asking anyone with information about this morning’s arson to contact police on 101, quoting CAD 1000/5MAY.
Posted on Tuesday 5th May 2026