The U.S. Embassy in London issued a security alert Friday telling American citizens to "exercise increased caution" near Jewish and American institutions in the United Kingdom and across Europe, citing a recent wave of attacks and threats.
"The U.S. Embassy in London notes recent attacks and threats targeting Jewish and American institutions in the United Kingdom and Europe," the alert read. "U.S. citizens, particularly those visiting institutions serving Jewish or American interests, should remain alert and exercise increased caution."
The advisory pointed to several specific incidents. On March 23, four ambulances linked to a Jewish charity in London were set on fire. On April 18, the Kenton United Synagogue in London was attacked. In late March, an explosion struck a Jewish school in Amsterdam that authorities described as a "targeted attack against the Jewish community." No injuries were reported in that incident, though the building sustained damage.
The embassy also advised Americans to stay alert in tourist and expatriate areas and at houses of worship, to review their personal security plans, and to monitor local media for developments. Citizens can enroll in the State Department's Safe Traveler Enrollment Program to receive ongoing security and travel updates.
U.K. investigators are looking into whether the London attacks were carried out by what authorities have described as "thugs for hire" backed by Iran, according to GB News. Prime Minister Keir Starmer acknowledged the threat in comments to the Jewish Chronicle, saying legislation to address malign foreign state actors is being prepared. "In relation to malign state actors more generally, proscription, we do need legislation in order to take necessary measures, and that is legislation that we're bringing forward as soon as we can," Starmer said.
The alert arrives at a moment of heightened concern about antisemitic violence across Europe. The specificity of recent attacks, targeting synagogues, charity vehicles, and a school, suggests coordinated intent rather than isolated incidents. British authorities have not yet publicly named suspects or confirmed Iranian involvement.
