Terror Attack Outside Manchester Synagogue Leaves Two Dead, Three Injured
London — A devastating terror attack occurred outside a synagogue in Manchester, England, on Thursday, resulting in the deaths of two Jewish men and injuring three others. The incident happened while the Jewish community was observing Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. The attack was carried out by a lone individual, identified as 35-year-old Jihad Al-Shamie, a British citizen of Syrian descent.
According to Manchester police, the attacker drove a vehicle directly at people outside the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue and then attacked others with a knife. The incident was reported to the police at 9:30 a.m. local time, and within minutes, officers responded and shot the attacker, who later died. A bomb disposal unit was deployed to the scene, and a vest worn by the attacker was deemed to be not viable.
Response from Authorities and Leaders
U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the attack, stating that it was a “horrific incident” and a “vile individual” who committed the terrorist attack. Starmer announced that there would be a “more visible police presence” to protect Jewish communities across the country. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood also increased security at synagogues nationwide, reassuring the public that “we will do whatever is required to keep our Jewish community safe.”
Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, expressed his condolences, saying, “Today we have witnessed a vile attack on our Jewish community on its holiest day.” London Mayor Sadiq Khan announced that the Metropolitan Police Service would be “stepping up high-visibility policing in and around synagogues in London.” King Charles III and Queen Camilla also released a statement, expressing their deep shock and sadness at the horrific attack.
Investigation and Arrests
Police are working to understand the motivation behind the attack, and three individuals have been arrested on suspicion of commission, preparation, and instigation of acts of terrorism. The investigation is ongoing, and formal identification of the attacker has yet to take place. The incident has left the Jewish community in shock, with one local resident, Vicky, telling Reuters, “I’m Jewish and absolutely terrified… It’s just absolutely frightening because I’m scared for my own safety and my mom’s safety.”
Increased Security Measures
In response to the attack, security measures have been increased at synagogues across the U.K. The government has reassured the Jewish community that they will do everything necessary to keep them safe. As the investigation continues, the community remains in shock, and leaders have urged people to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
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