Tragedy struck in Manchester, Britain, on Thursday when an attack occurred near a Jewish prayer facility. A vehicle first struck a number of individuals. The driver then got out of the car and initiated a knife attack. The individual responsible for the attack is identified as Jihad al-Shami. The attack led to two fatalities and left four people severely injured.
The police stated that the suspect was 35 years old. He was a British citizen of Syrian origin. After the attack, the suspect was shot. Police have stated that although formal identification is still pending, they are confident that the perpetrator of the attack is Jihad al-Shami, 35, a British citizen of Syrian origin. The investigation into the attack is ongoing.
The Metropolitan Police, which directs the country’s counter-terrorism policing, has declared the assault a terrorist incident. Assistant Commissioner Lawrence Taylor announced the arrest of two additional suspects. The identities of the victims have yet to be confirmed.
The attack targeted individuals gathered at the Orthodox Synagogue in Manchester. The incident occurred on Yom Kippur, which is the holiest day in the Jewish religion.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer strongly criticized the attacker, who targeted Jews simply for being Jewish. He promised the Jewish community that their security will be prioritized, with increased police presence being the initial step. Starmer reassured that the UK will demonstrate unity and compassion. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed sorrow and condolences. Greater Manchester Police received a call from the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue around 9:30 a.m., just as religious services commenced.