On Yom Kippur, two Jews were killed and three others were critically wounded in a brutal attack outside a synagogue in Manchester, England, where the assailant used both a vehicle and a knife to target worshippers.
Police said the attacker, who at first appeared to be wearing an explosive belt, was fatally shot by officers who rushed to the scene.
Witnesses described a horrific sequence of events, saying the car accelerated into the crowd outside the building before the driver jumped out and began stabbing people. Authorities quickly summoned bomb disposal experts, later confirming it was an act of terrorism. They also reported that two additional suspects were taken into custody.
Chava Levin, a nearby resident, recounted the ordeal to British outlets. “As soon as he got out of the car, he started stabbing anyone nearby. He approached the guard and tried to break into the synagogue.” She continued, “Someone blocked the door. Everyone was in complete shock.” According to the Daily Mail, that individual was Rabbi Daniel Walker, who has led the congregation since 2008. “Rabbi Walker was incredibly calm,” Levin explained. “He closed the doors and blocked the entrance. He’s a hero. It could have been much worse.”
Greater Manchester Police Chief Constable Sir Stephen Watson praised the swift actions of congregants and staff. “There were a large number of worshippers attending the synagogue at the time of this attack but thanks to the immediate bravery of security staff and the worshippers inside as well as the fast response of the police, the attacker was prevented from gaining access.”
Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the assault, issuing a strong statement: “I’m appalled by the attack at a synagogue in Crumpsall. The fact that this has taken place on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, makes it all the more horrific. My thoughts are with the loved ones of all those affected, and my thanks go to the emergency services and all the first responders.”
Before boarding a flight, Starmer pledged increased protection for Jewish institutions. “We will do everything to ensure the safety of the Jewish community. Police presence will be increased around synagogues across the country.”
King Charles also spoke out, expressing his sorrow: he was “deeply saddened and shocked to learn of the horrific attack in Manchester, especially on such a significant day for the Jewish community.” The Israeli Embassy in London likewise denounced the violence, calling it “heinous and very distressing,” and added in a post on X: “We are in close contact with the Jewish community in Manchester to ensure they receive the necessary support.”
