Jews across Britain are observing Shabbat under heightened fear and security following a stabbing attack in Golders Green that left two Jewish men seriously injured. While families continue to light candles and attend synagogue, many say the atmosphere feels markedly different amid rising antisemitism and what some describe as a deafening silence from wider society.

Derek, a regular synagogue attendee, said he bought a baseball cap to cover his kippah on public transport because being visibly Jewish felt too risky. Though determined to attend services, he described his synagogue as heavily fortified, with increased security measures in place.

Human rights lawyer Adam Wagner shared similar concerns, debating whether to wear his kippah and worrying about potential violence even while buying traditional bread for Shabbat. Synagogues across the country are operating behind high walls with volunteers in protective gear and professional guards, while former rabbi Jonathan Romain said he now stands guard outside during services, fearing possible copycat attacks.

The man accused of carrying out the Golders Green stabbing has appeared in court charged with attempted murder. The attack follows a series of recent antisemitic incidents targeting Jewish individuals and sites, deepening anxiety within the community as they continue their religious observance.