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.
Sufia Alam, Chair of No Place For Hate, added:
“While the damage to the building has been reported as being minimal, the act of arson is incredibly serious. It is used to intimidate and it is inspired by hate.
“And this is the latest in a series of hate crimes in London. These events were shocking to us all, and as of last week the terror-threat level was raised to Substantial in recognition of this spate of hate.
“Tower Hamlets is truly multi-cultural and we pride ourselves on that. Any form of hatred is an affront on our community.
“We are a borough that prides itself on standing up to hate and as such have A No Place for Hate Forum, as well as a Hate Incident Panel, and we urge businesses and individuals to sign up to our No Place for Hate pledge to show that we are united in our condemnation. Personal pledge against hate
“As with all forms of hate, antisemitism has no place in Tower Hamlets. We are our proud of our diverse community and rich history.
“We know that that there might be heightened fear and community concerns following this. If you have any concerns, or would like to discuss any issues, please do contact us at hatecrime@towerhamlets.gov.uk.
“In an emergency, always call 999.
“For advice on protective security for Jewish please contact the Community Security Trust (CST): National Emergency Number (24-hr) 0800 032 3263.”
Posted on Tuesday 5th May 2026