Two Killed in Manchester Synagogue Attack on Yom Kippur; UK Vows to Combat Rising Antisemitism

Manchester Synagogue Attack: Britain Vows to Combat Antisemitism

On October 2, 2025, a terror attack occurred outside the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Crumpsall, North Manchester, resulting in the deaths of two people and several injuries. The attack, which took place on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, has been condemned as an act of antisemitism and terrorism. The British government, led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, has vowed to redouble its efforts to protect the Jewish community and combat rising antisemitism.

Details of the Attack

The attacker, identified as Jihad al-Shamie, a 35-year-old British citizen of Syrian descent, drove a car into pedestrians before engaging in a stabbing attack. He was shot dead at the scene by armed officers. Police have arrested three suspects – two men in their 30s and a woman in her 60s – on suspicion of commission, preparation, and instigation of acts of terrorism. The victims have been named as Adrian Daulby, 53, and Melvin Cravitz, 66, both local residents.

Eyewitness accounts describe a scene of chaos and terror. A video verified by Reuters showed police shooting a man inside the synagogue’s perimeter. Greater Manchester Police confirmed that the suspect was wearing what appeared to be a vest with an explosive device, which was later determined to be non-viable.

Government Response and Condemnation

Prime Minister Keir Starmer cut short his attendance at the European Political Community summit in Denmark to chair an emergency Cobra committee meeting in London. He has promised to do "everything" in his power to protect Jewish people, promising a more visible police presence at communal facilities. "We must be clear, it is a hatred that is rising once again, and Britain must defeat it once again," Starmer stated.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood condemned the attack as "antisemitic" and emphasized the government’s commitment to keeping the Jewish community safe. "We will do whatever is required to keep our Jewish community safe," she affirmed. She also criticized pro-Palestine protests that took place shortly after the attack as "un-British" and dishonourable.

International Reactions and Concerns

The attack has drawn condemnation from international leaders. King Charles III expressed being "deeply shocked and saddened" and offered his prayers to those affected. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the "barbaric terror attack" and warned that "weakness in the face of terrorism only brings more terrorism."

However, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar accused the UK government of failing to curb "rampant antisemitic and anti-Israeli incitement in Britain." He demanded "a change of course" and "effective actions" from the Starmer government.

Rising Antisemitism and Community Response

Jewish leaders have expressed deep concern over rising antisemitism in Britain, particularly since the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas on Israel. The Community Security Trust (CST) described the attack as an "appalling attack on the holiest day of the Jewish year." The Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis said the incident was the "tragic result" of an "unrelenting wave of Jew hatred."

In response to the attack, figures across the political spectrum and community leaders have voiced their support for the Jewish community. Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham condemned the attack and pledged to "do everything within our power to keep people safe." Imam Qari Asim, co-chairman of the British Muslim Network, stated that "antisemitism in all its forms is totally unacceptable."

Increased Security Measures

In the wake of the attack, security measures have been heightened at Jewish communal facilities across Britain. Prime Minister Starmer has promised a more visible police presence and has stated that "Britain will come together to wrap our arms around your community and show you that Britain is a place where you and your family are safe, secure and belong."