A survivor of the Golders Green attack, Shloime Rand, has described his survival as “a very big miracle” in an interview with the BBC from his hospital bed. “I feel like God’s given me back my life,” said the 34-year-old, who was stabbed alongside 76-year-old Moshe Shine in north London on Wednesday. Police have arrested Essa Suleiman, 45, a British citizen who arrived in the UK from Somalia in the early 1990s, on suspicion of attempted murder. He remains in custody.
Victim Expresses Gratitude for Survival
Rand expressed gratitude that his injuries were not more severe. “I would have been even happier if nothing would have happened, but you know, in this situation I’m very happy that I survived and I can talk,” he stated. He sustained a stab wound to his chest, affecting his lungs and reducing oxygen levels, but he hopes for a swift recovery. Recalling the incident, Rand described walking down the street when the assailant approached and “just stabbed me in the chest.” He credits his ability to jump back with saving his life.
The suspect was subsequently Tasered and arrested by police. The Metropolitan Police revealed that the individual has a “history of serious violence and mental health issues” and was referred to the government’s counter-terrorism Prevent programme in 2020, though that referral was closed the same year.
Rand was discharged from the hospital on Thursday evening, as confirmed by Rabbi Levi Schapiro of the Jewish Community Council. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer affirmed his government’s commitment to “stamp this hatred out” and enhance security measures.
Calls for Stronger Action Against Antisemitism
When questioned about the sufficiency of efforts to combat antisemitism, Rand responded with a firm “definitely not,” deeming statements from No 10 inadequate. He emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “It’s terrible, and it can no longer be ignored by the government… people’s lives are in danger.” Rand highlighted that friends and community members now express fear about walking in the streets, indicating a heightened level of concern.
Sir Ephraim Mirvis, the UK’s Chief Rabbi, has urged “meaningful action” to address the root causes of antisemitism. The Board of Deputies of British Jews stressed that antisemitism must be “confronted, punished and deterred with the full force of the state.” In response, the government announced an additional £25 million for the security of Jewish communities on Thursday. This funding aims to bolster police patrols and protective measures around synagogues, schools, and community centers, bringing the total commitment for this year to £58 million.
#GoldersGreenAttack #Antisemitism #CommunitySafety #LondonNews #HateCrime #JewishCommunity #UKPolitics #SecurityFunding #CrimePrevention #SurvivorsStories
Leave a Reply