A violent assault occurred in Manchester, Britain, on Thursday, near a Jewish prayer site. The incident began with a car colliding with pedestrians. Subsequently, the driver, identified as Jihad al-Shami, exited the vehicle and attacked people with a knife. The attack resulted in the deaths of two people, while four others sustained severe injuries.
The police have disclosed that the suspect was 35 years old and held British citizenship but originated from Syria. The suspect was shot and killed following the attack. Although formal identification is still in progress, authorities believe that Jihad al-Shami is responsible for the attack. He is a British citizen of Syrian descent. The initial investigations showed that the suspect’s name was not in the police or security agencies’ terrorism-related records.
The Metropolitan Police, leading the country’s counter-terrorism efforts, has classified the incident as a terrorist attack. Assistant Commissioner Lawrence Taylor reported the arrest of two other suspects. The identities of the victims have not yet been released.
The attack took place at the Orthodox Synagogue in Manchester, targeting individuals observing Yom Kippur, which is the most sacred day in the Jewish faith.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the attacker for targeting Jewish people because of their faith. He pledged to the Jewish community that their security is paramount and will increase police presence in the area. Starmer said the UK will be united in its support. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also expressed his sorrow, saying that Israel stands with the Jewish community. Greater Manchester Police reported receiving a call at approximately 9:30 a.m. from the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue, just as religious services were beginning.