UK chief rabbi says Jews targeted by 'sustained campaign of violence and intimidation' after string of attacks

The Metropolitan Police said specialized counterterror officers are probing fires at synagogues, Jewish-linked facilities and a Persian-language media company critical of Iran's regime.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans said investigators are examining claims by a group calling itself Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia, which has taken responsibility for several attacks. The group's name means Islamic Movement of the Companions of the Right.

"We are aware of public reporting that suggests this group may have links to Iran. As you would expect, we will continue to explore that question as our investigation evolves," she said.

"I've spoken previously about the Iranian regime's use of criminal proxies, and we're considering whether this tactic is being used here in London," Evans added.

Authorities say the group - which Israel has described as a possible Iranian proxy - has also claimed synagogue attacks in Belgium and the Netherlands.

"Thank God, no lives have been lost, but we cannot, and must not, wait for that to change before we understand just how dangerous this moment is for all of our society," he added.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the violence, calling the attacks "abhorrent" and vowing those responsible "will be found and brought to justice."

The threat level rose further after the group released a video claiming it would target Israel's embassy in London with drones carrying hazardous substances. Police shut down nearby Kensington Gardens while investigating suspicious items but said no dangerous materials were found.

British officials have long warned that Iran uses criminal networks to carry out attacks in Europe. MI5 says it disrupted more than 20 potentially lethal Iran-linked plots in the past year.

Police issued a blunt warning to any "thugs for hire" involved in such attacks.

"Let's be really clear - it's a mug's game," said Deputy Commissioner Matt Jukes. "That's what people who are now serving long prison sentences have found out, and the same fate awaits those responsible for these recent crimes."

Investigators say the probe remains ongoing as authorities work to determine whether the attacks are part of a coordinated foreign-backed campaign.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.