Counter-terror police are investigating an arson at a former synagogue in Tower Hamlets, east London.
The Metropolitan Police said the fire occurred on Tuesday morning.
Jewish security charity Shomrim said that fire crews were called out to the building in Nelson Street, Whitechapel, east London, in the early hours.
Minor damage was caused to a set of gates and a lock at the front of the building, the Met said.
CCTV showed that the fire had been started deliberately minutes before, the force said.
There were no reports of injuries.
The arson is the latest in a series of incidents at sites linked to the Jewish community across London in the past few months.
Detective Chief Superintendent Brittany Clarke said: “We are taking this incident extremely seriously and we will be working closely with colleagues from Counter Terrorism Policing to support the investigation.
“The building targeted has not been operational as a synagogue for some years but that will be of little comfort to the Jewish community in Tower Hamlets, Hackney and beyond, who are first in my thoughts this morning.
“Local residents can expect to see an increased police presence in the area while inquiries into this incident continue.”
Commander Helen Flanagan, head of Counter Terrorism Policing London, which is leading the investigation, said: “This incident follows on from a number of arsons and attempted arsons targeting Jewish Londoners in the north-west of the city and we will be considering any potential links as their investigation gets under way.
“Detectives are already working quickly to gather evidence and identify those responsible, and I would urge anyone with CCTV or information that could assist detectives to contact police.
“Counter-terrorism officers continue to work closely with our colleagues in the Metropolitan Police in response to the various incidents. We’re providing protective security advice and support to various organisations, community venues and businesses.
“With the threat level now raised to severe, everyone can play their part to keep themselves and their communities safe. If you see or hear anything that doesn’t look or feel right, then please report it to us. Your information could help us save lives.”
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