A harrowing incident unfolded in Manchester, Britain, on Thursday. A vehicle reportedly struck several individuals outside a Jewish prayer site. The driver then exited the vehicle and began attacking people with a knife. The individual responsible for the attack has been identified as Jihad al-Shami. The attack resulted in two fatalities and left four others with serious injuries. Authorities confirmed the suspect was 35 years old. He was a British citizen of Syrian origin. The suspect was shot following the attack. Police have stated that while formal identification is pending, they are confident that Jihad al-Shami, a 35-year-old British citizen of Syrian origin, is the perpetrator. Investigations into the attack are ongoing.
The Metropolitan Police, which leads counter-terrorism activities in the country, has declared the attack as a terrorist incident. Assistant Commissioner Lawrence Taylor reported the arrest of two additional suspects. The victims have yet to be identified.
The attack targeted individuals gathered at Manchester’s Orthodox Synagogue. The event took place on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in Judaism.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer strongly condemned the attacker, who targeted Jewish individuals simply for their religious affiliation. He pledged to the Jewish community that their safety would be prioritized, with increased police presence being the initial step. Starmer asserted that the UK will demonstrate unity and compassion, embracing the community and ensuring a secure environment for them and their families.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed condolences to the Jewish community in Britain. He shared that Israel’s thoughts are with the families who lost loved ones, and prayers are with the injured for a swift recovery. Greater Manchester Police received a call around 9:30 a.m. from the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue, just as religious services were commencing.