Two people have died and three others remain in hospital with serious injuries after a violent attack outside a synagogue in Manchester, authorities said.
Armed officers shot the suspect, identified as 35-year-old Jihad Al-Shamie, a British citizen of Syrian descent. Officers initially could not confirm his death due to concerns he was wearing a device later deemed “not viable”.
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer condemned the attack as “horrific” and antisemitic, urging the nation to stand against hatred. “We must be clear this is a hatred that is rising once again, and Britain must defeat it,” he said, praising first responders for preventing a greater tragedy.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed his condolences, condemning the violence and affirming solidarity with the UK.
“I send my condolences to the people of Manchester after the heinous attack on a synagogue on the most sacred day on the Jewish calendar. There is no place for terrorism and all Australians stand with the UK at this dreadful time.”
Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed grief with the UK Jewish community, mourning the victims, and calling for strength and unity against terrorism.
“Israel grieves with the Jewish community in the UK after the barbaric terror attack in Manchester. Our hearts are with the families of the murdered, and we pray for the swift recovery of the wounded. As I warned at the UN: weakness in the face of terrorism only brings more terrorism. Only strength and unity can defeat it.”
The incident occurred at the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in the Crumpsall district as worshippers gathered to mark Yom Kippur, the holiest day on the Jewish calendar. Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said the attack involved a car deliberately driven into people, followed by a stabbing.
GMP Chief Constable Sir Stephen Watson praised the swift action of first responders and synagogue security staff, saying the offender was prevented from entering the building, likely averting further casualties.
“The quick response from our officers allowed them to act bravely to bring this horrendous attack to an end.”
Emergency services, including bomb disposal teams, were deployed to the scene. Authorities confirmed there was no ongoing threat to the public.
Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham described the incident as serious but said the immediate danger had passed, advising residents to avoid the area.
King Charles and Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar also condemned the attack. The Community Security Trust noted the incident came amid a continuing rise in antisemitic attacks across the UK, particularly following the conflict in Gaza in 2023.
Kemi Badenoch, leader of the Conservative Party, condemned the synagogue attack, calling it “horrifying” and emphasising that Britain must remain a safe home for Jews, free from fear, hatred, or violence.
“These attacks on Yom Kippur are horrifying. The Jewish community should never have to live in fear. Britain must remain a safe home for Jews: free from hatred, intimidation or violence.”
The UK Holocaust Museum condemned the Manchester synagogue attack as a “horrific reminder” of global threats to Jewish communities, calling for antisemitism to be confronted.
“The killing of Jews at a Manchester synagogue on Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the year, is a horrific reminder of the threats facing Jews worldwide. This act of terrorism must be denounced and antisemitism confronted. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims’ families.”
Three other people have been arrested in connection with the attack, which police have officially classified as a terrorist incident.
Police continue to investigate the motives behind the attack and maintain an increased presence at synagogues nationwide.
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