Already a subscriber? Make sure to log into your account before viewing this content. You can access your account by hitting the “login” button on the top right corner. Still unable to see the content after signing in? Make sure your card on file is up-to-date.
At least two people have died following a terrorist attack targeting a synagogue in the United Kingdom.
Getting into it: According to authorities, the attack unfolded on Thursday morning outside the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation in Manchester, as members of the Jewish community gathered for Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. A man drove a vehicle into a crowd of worshippers before exiting the car and launching a knife attack. Security guards and congregants inside the synagogue acted quickly to prevent the attacker from entering the building, likely preventing a far greater tragedy. Armed police responded within seven minutes of the first emergency call and eventually killed the suspect.
The attacker was initially believed to be wearing an explosive vest, which prompted a large-scale emergency response, including bomb disposal teams. Authorities later confirmed the device was not viable, though its realistic appearance heightened fear and chaos in the moments following the attack. While police said they have a strong indication of the attacker’s identity, it has not yet been publicly released due to ongoing safety concerns and the active counterterrorism investigation.
Two additional suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident, but their roles remain unclear.
Manchester Police Chief Constable Stephen Watson said that the suspect deliberately targeted Jews “because they are Jews,” with national counterterrorism authorities formally declaring the attack an act of terrorism.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the attack “vile” and “appalling,” highlighting its occurrence on a sacred religious day as especially horrific. Speaking from Downing Street, he pledged to “wrap our arms around” the Jewish community and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to keeping all communities safe. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also condemned the attack, expressing solidarity with British Jews and mourning the victims.
In response to the attack, the UK government has significantly increased police presence around synagogues and other Jewish sites nationwide.
