Golders Green Stabbings: Hate Crime Not Terrorism, Police Say 2026

The Golders Green stabbings of two Jewish men in April are no longer being treated as suspected terrorism, police have confirmed. The case is now being pursued as an alleged hate crime, marking a significant shift in the investigation.

Background of the Golders Green Stabbings

On 29 April, two Jewish men were stabbed in Golders Green, north London, an area with a large Jewish population. Essa Suleiman, 45, was arrested by the Metropolitan police on suspicion of attempted murder shortly after the attacks. At the time, police said they were treating the stabbings as suspected terrorist offences. Suleiman has also been charged with attempted murder over the unconnected stabbing of another man earlier that same day.

Legal Update: From Terrorism to Hate Crime

On Friday, Suleiman appeared in court for a pre-trial hearing where he denied all charges. The prosecution said the case was no longer being treated as a suspected terrorism case. In an email message sent to communities across London on Monday, the Met said: “At the hearing, the Crown Prosecution Service advised the court that it will not be pursuing a terrorist connection as part of the criminal proceedings.” It said it would treat it instead as a suspected hate crime.

“We understand this announcement may cause concern, particularly within the Jewish community, given the impact this incident had locally and against the backdrop of recent incidents affecting Jewish communities across London. We would like to reassure residents that the seriousness with which this matter is being treated has not changed,” the Met added.

Key Takeaways

• The Golders Green stabbings are no longer classified as suspected terrorism.
• Police are now treating the case as an alleged hate crime.
• Essa Suleiman denies all charges, including attempted murder.
• The Crown Prosecution Service will not pursue a terrorist connection.
• Community leaders express concern but police vow unchanged seriousness.

Community Reaction and Police Assurance

The decision has sparked concern among Jewish communities in London, who have faced a rise in antisemitic incidents. Commander Helen Flanagan, head of the Met's counter-terrorism command, sought to reassure residents. “We understand this announcement may cause concern... We would like to reassure residents that the seriousness with which this matter is being treated has not changed,” she said.

Local leaders have called for unity and increased security. The Met has pledged to maintain a visible presence in Golders Green and other areas with large Jewish populations.

Comparison: Terrorism vs. Hate Crime Classification

FAQ

Conclusion

The reclassification of the Golders Green stabbings from suspected terrorism to an alleged hate crime underscores the complexities of such cases. While the legal process continues, the community remains vigilant. Police have promised to keep residents safe and informed as the case progresses.

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