Man admits attempted murder of Saudi visitor he stabbed during robbery in London's Mayfair

A British man, Ivan Stringer, 58, has pleaded guilty to attempting to murder a Saudi Arabian visitor, Thamer Al Qarawi, during a robbery in London's Mayfair district. The incident occurred on September 3 when Stringer stabbed Al Qarawi as the latter walked through Berkeley Square. The Saudi embassy had previously warned its citizens to be vigilant and guard their property, as the suspect was believed to have been attacked for his backpack containing a luxury watch, though no items were stolen.

Stringer, who admitted to wounding with intent, attempted robbery, and possession of a knife, was arrested at the scene and taken to the hospital with minor injuries. The Saudi national was treated at the scene before being hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries and subsequently returned to his home in Saudi Arabia. Stringer's defense attorney stated that the defendant had hit "rock bottom" and was struggling to find work and depleted his savings when he committed the offense.

At Southwark Crown Court, Judge Christopher Hehir emphasized that all sentencing options, including a life sentence, would be considered. The Met Police were alerted at 9:38 PM regarding the attack and noted that the suspect was taken to the hospital with minor injuries. This incident has raised concerns about the safety of street crime in London, particularly thefts of mobile phones and watches, which have damaged the city's reputation as a safe place to work and visit.