Barnet communities unite after synagogue arson attempt

The Somali Bravanese Muslim community attended a Shabbat service at Finchley Reform Synagogue on 29 October 2026, showing solidarity after an attempted arson attack on the place of worship. The incident, which occurred in the Finchley area of Barnet, saw members of the Somali Bravanese community join congregants for the Friday night service.

A history of mutual support

This display of unity follows a pattern of support between the two communities. In 2013, the Somali Bravanese Muslim community centre in Barnet was destroyed by fire, with the letters EDL spray-painted on the building. At that time, Finchley Reform Synagogue opened its doors to allow the Somali Bravanese community to gather for prayer and to begin the process of healing.

The recent event, where the Somali Bravanese community attended the synagogue service, was described by Sarah Sackman, the Labour MP for Finchley and Golders Green, as a demonstration of resilience in defence of their shared home in Britain. Sackman, who is also the minister of state for courts and legal services, drew parallels between these incidents and the historic Battle of Cable Street ninety years prior, where diverse groups united against fascism.

Sackman stated in an opinion piece published on 4 October 2026 that the spirit of Cable Street, characterised by solidarity and mutual defence against sectarian forces, remains relevant. She argued that such unity is essential to counter extremism and promote fairness and tolerance within British society.

The MP noted that while national policies, such as proscribing the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and investing in policing, are important responses to extremism, a progressive patriotism that embraces diversity is also necessary. She emphasised the importance of countering divisive narratives and fostering a sense of shared identity.

The actions of the Somali Bravanese and Jewish communities in Barnet, as highlighted by Sackman, serve as an example of how different groups can come together to support each other in the face of hate and division.

What happens next

The police are investigating the attempted arson attack on Finchley Reform Synagogue. The response from the Somali Bravanese community demonstrates ongoing inter-community cooperation in Barnet.