History of violence against Jews, police: What we know about Golders Green attacker - explainer

The horrific stabbing of two Orthodox Jews in Golders Green by Essa Suleiman is a stark reminder of the persistent threat of antisemitic violence in our communities. Suleiman, a British national of Somali origin, has now been charged with attempted murder, a charge that reflects the severity of his actions.

What is particularly chilling is Suleiman's history. He was known to the government's Prevent program, designed to counter extremism, yet his case was closed. Furthermore, his past includes a nine-year jail sentence from 2008 for stabbing two police officers and a police dog during a violent outburst. This pattern of extreme violence, coupled with his alleged antisemitic motivations, raises serious questions about the effectiveness of existing counter-terrorism measures and the oversight of individuals with such a dangerous history.

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You were responsible for three episodes of grave violence. The first happened in the flat in which you were staying, and you attacked someone who was living there, running at him with a knife raised above your head, then proceeded to assault him to his face and his head. He must have been terrified.

Campaign Against Antisemitism and The Jerusalem Post's investigation has uncovered further disturbing details, including reports of Suleiman's past verbal and physical abuse towards Jews at vigils for hostages. This history paints a grim picture of an individual with a deep-seated animosity towards the Jewish community.

While Suleiman has been charged, the focus must now shift to understanding how such an individual, with a documented history of violence and known to authorities, could carry out such an attack. We must demand a thorough review of the Prevent program and mental health services to ensure that individuals who pose a clear danger to the public, particularly to minority communities, are adequately monitored and managed. The safety of our citizens, especially our Jewish community, depends on it.

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The police were then called. You pulled out a knife, and you attacked [the officer], firstly attacking the dog. Another police officer intervened, and you maintained the ferocity of your attack. They tried using a Taser on you to no effect.