UK on High Alert Following Deadly Manchester Synagogue Attack
The United Kingdom is on heightened alert following a deadly terror attack outside a Manchester synagogue on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. The attack, which occurred on Thursday, resulted in the deaths of two people and left three others seriously injured. Authorities are concerned about potential copycat incidents and have increased security measures nationwide.
The Attack and Its Immediate Aftermath
The attacker, identified as Jihad al-Shamie, a 35-year-old UK citizen of Syrian origin, carried out a car ramming and stabbing spree outside the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Crumpsall. Armed officers shot him dead within seven minutes of the first emergency call. While al-Shamie wore a vest appearing to contain explosives, police later confirmed it was non-functional.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) have identified the victims as Adrian Daulby, 53, and Melvin Cravitz, 66, both residents of Crumpsall. Three other individuals remain hospitalized in serious condition. GMP have also arrested three individuals – two men in their 30s and a woman in her 60s – on suspicion of terrorism-related offenses.
National Response and Security Measures
In response to the attack, Interior Minister Shabana Mahmood confirmed the country is on "high alert," with increased police resources deployed across the country, particularly around synagogues. Prime Minister Keir Starmer returned early from a European summit to chair an emergency response meeting and pledged to "do everything in my power" to protect the Jewish community.
The Community Security Trust (CST) is collaborating with police to enhance security at synagogues and throughout the Jewish community. They advised against congregating outside communal premises and recommended synagogues maintain closed doors.
Reactions and Condemnation
The attack has drawn strong condemnation from various figures. Israel's Foreign Minister, Gideon Sa’ar, criticized the UK government for allegedly failing to address "rampant antisemitic and anti-Israeli incitement." Britain’s Chief Rabbi, Ephraim Mirvis, described the attack as the "tragic result of Jew hatred."
"For so long we have witnessed an unrelenting wave of Jew hatred on our streets, on campuses, on social media and elsewhere – this is the tragic result." - Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis
Concerns have also arisen regarding pro-Palestinian demonstrations held shortly after the attack. Mahmood criticized these rallies as "dishonourable," while Green Party leader Zack Polanski accused the Home Secretary of being "deeply irresponsible" for conflating protests against the situation in Gaza with the antisemitic attack.
Increased Threat Level and Potential for Copycat Attacks
Counter-terrorism police and security services are on heightened alert due to concerns about potential copycat attacks. MI5 and the Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre (JTAC) have assessed the current threat as SUBSTANTIAL since February 2022, meaning an attack is likely, but JTAC are understood to be considering whether to raise it again. A key inquiry is whether the attacker acted alone, as plots directed from overseas become rarer and individuals are often radicalized online.
Details Emerge Regarding the Attacker
Reports indicate that al-Shamie was not previously known to security services. Home Office sources stated that he arrived in the UK as a young child and was granted British citizenship in 2006. Al-Shamie's family have released a statement condemning his "heinous act," which they described as a "profound shock."
Ongoing Investigation
An investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has been launched following one victim believed to have been shot by police. Authorities are continuing to investigate al-Shamie’s motives and connections to determine the full extent of the threat. The police will review digital devices, online histories and his property.
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