Britain has heightened security nationwide following a terror attack outside a Manchester synagogue that left two people dead and three others seriously injured during Yom Kippur.
Police shot dead the attacker, identified as UK citizen of Syrian origin Jihad al-Shamie, after he rammed his car into worshippers outside Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Crumpsall before launching a stabbing spree. Armed officers responded within seven minutes. A vest he wore was later found to be non-functional.
Interior Minister Shabana Mahmood confirmed that synagogues across the country are now under tightened security, saying, “We are absolutely on high alert. Our priority is making sure that our citizens are safe and can go about their lives within the Jewish community and beyond.”
Greater Manchester Police named the two victims as Adrian Daulby, 53, and Melvin Cravitz, 66, both residents of Crumpsall. Three others remain in serious condition in hospital. Police have arrested three suspects — two men in their 30s and a woman in her 60s — on terrorism-related charges.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer cut short his trip to a European summit to chair an emergency meeting in London, pledging to “do everything in my power” to protect the Jewish community. He later visited the attack site with his wife Victoria.
The attack, one of the worst antisemitic incidents in Europe since 2023, has drawn international condemnation. Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar accused UK authorities of failing to address “rampant antisemitic and anti-Israeli incitement.”
Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis described the tragedy as the result of “unrelenting Jew hatred,” warning that antisemitism has become increasingly visible in Britain.
Meanwhile, protests linked to the Gaza conflict have fueled further tensions. A “Global Movement for Gaza UK” demonstration went ahead in London Thursday night, leading to 40 arrests, including six for assaults on police officers. Authorities have urged organisers to postpone further rallies, but plans for the weekend remain.
Residents in Manchester’s Jewish community have expressed fear and grief. “Of course, everyone in the community in recent years has experienced some sort of antisemitism… the conflict in Israel has definitely exacerbated resentment,” said Alex, a 31-year-old Jewish businessman who knew one of the victims.
Authorities continue investigations as security remains heightened across the UK.
