Counter-terrorism police have confirmed the deadly attack at a Manchester synagogue this morning that left two victims dead and three others critically injured is being treated as terrorism. The suspect, who was shot dead by armed officers, targeted the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Crumpsall on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar.
Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor, the national head of counter-terrorism policing, confirmed the terror designation in a statement outside New Scotland Yard in London this afternoon. “Based on what we know, counterterrorism policing has declared this is a terrorist incident,” he stated, adding that two arrests had been made in connection with the attack.
The horrific assault unfolded at 9:31am when a member of the public called Greater Manchester Police to report a vehicle being driven at worshippers outside the synagogue on Middleton Road, alongside reports of stabbings. Armed officers arrived within minutes, declaring Operation PLATO, the national codeword for responding to marauding terrorist attacks, at 9:37am.
Swift Police Response Prevented Greater Tragedy
Firearms officers shot the attacker just seven minutes after the first emergency call, at 9:38am, preventing him from entering the packed synagogue where hundreds had gathered for morning prayers. A Greater Manchester Police spokesperson praised “the member of the public whose quick response to what they witnessed allowed our swift action, and as a result the offender was prevented from entering the synagogue.”
Witnesses described scenes of terror as the attacker, who appeared to be wearing what looked like an explosive device strapped to his body, launched his assault. One witness reported seeing the suspect attempting to enter the synagogue before being confronted. Dramatic video footage verified by news outlets showed armed officers pointing weapons at a man on the ground outside the synagogue’s entrance, beneath the building’s blue Star of David.
The bomb disposal unit was immediately deployed to the scene after officers identified suspicious items on the suspect’s body. Police confirmed a loud noise heard later was specialist resources gaining entry to the suspect’s vehicle “as a precaution,” with authorities assuring there was no risk to the public.
National Security Response Activated
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who was attending a European Political Community summit in Copenhagen, immediately departed to chair an emergency COBRA meeting in London. “I’m appalled by the attack at a synagogue in Crumpsall,” Starmer said before boarding his flight. “The fact that this has taken place on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, makes it all the more horrific.”
The Prime Minister confirmed that “additional police assets” would be deployed at synagogues nationwide, stating: “We will do everything to keep our Jewish community safe.” The Metropolitan Police immediately increased patrols around Jewish religious and cultural sites across London, whilst Greater Manchester Police maintained direct contact with all synagogues across their region.
Assistant Commissioner Taylor emphasised the comprehensive nature of the investigation: “We will ensure every piece of intelligence and line of inquiry is interrogated. We’re working closely with the security services to ensure we have a full intelligence picture in the coming days and weeks.”
Community in Shock During Holy Day
The attack struck at the heart of Manchester’s Jewish community during their most sacred observance. The synagogue had scheduled seven events for Yom Kippur, including a morning Shacharis prayer service at 9am, just half an hour before the assault began. A children’s service was planned for 12:15pm, which was subsequently cancelled.
Dave Rich of the Community Security Trust (CST), a charity monitoring antisemitism in the UK, explained the significance: “Yom Kippur is similar to Christmas Day for Christians, but is a day of solemnity and fasting rather than celebration.” The large Ashkenazi Orthodox synagogue, which has served Crumpsall’s Jewish congregation since 1935, with the current building completed in 1967, was packed with worshippers when the attack occurred.
Members of the congregation reportedly blockaded the synagogue doors when they realised what was happening outside, potentially saving many lives. Those inside were initially held for their safety whilst police secured the area, but were later evacuated. Community members were seen comforting each other near the synagogue, with many too distressed to speak to media.
Political and Religious Leaders Unite in Condemnation
King Charles III led national tributes, stating he and Queen Camilla were “deeply shocked and saddened to learn of the horrific attack in Manchester, especially on such a significant day for the Jewish community. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this appalling incident and we greatly appreciate the swift actions of the emergency services.”
Opposition leader Kemi Badenoch condemned the “vile and disgusting” attack, adding: “I know many in our Jewish community will feel shaken. They deserve to know they are not alone.” Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey and other political figures across the spectrum expressed solidarity with the Jewish community.
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham addressed the fear within local communities: “Today we have witnessed a vile attack on our Jewish community on its holiest day. We condemn whoever is responsible and will do everything within our power to keep people safe.”
London Mayor Sadiq Khan, speaking from the capital, acknowledged the heightened anxiety: “Jewish people have been scared and feeling scared over the last few months, indeed, since October the 7th, 2023. I want to reassure them that in London they will be seeing additional police officers.”
Rising Concerns About Religious Hatred
Religious leaders from across faiths condemned the attack and called for unity. Imam Qari Asim, co-chairman of the British Muslim Network, described the attack as “utterly abhorrent,” warning: “We cannot ignore the growing tide of religious hatred in our country. Whether it is Islamophobia, antisemitism or any form of bigotry, we must confront it together, with unity and courage, not silence.”
The Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, the Church of England’s most senior bishop, said he was “very shocked” and prayed that “all may live alongside each other in harmony and respect.”
The Israeli Embassy in London condemned the attack as “abhorrent and deeply distressing,” stating: “That such an act of violence should be perpetrated on the holiest day of the Jewish calendar, in a place of prayer and community, is abhorrent and deeply distressing.”
Investigation and Public Appeal
Counter-terrorism officers have launched a comprehensive investigation, with specialist teams examining the scene and gathering evidence. Police have established a Casualty Bureau for concerned families and friends, urging people to call 0800 056 0154 or use the online portal rather than attending the scene.
Greater Manchester Police urged anyone with images or footage of the incident to share them directly with investigators rather than posting on social media. The force confirmed that whilst the immediate threat had been neutralised, heightened security measures would remain in place across religious sites indefinitely.
Assistant Commissioner Taylor urged public vigilance: “I would like to ask the public to remain vigilant and report anything that doesn’t feel right to the police.” He directed people to report suspicious activity via gov.uk/ACT or the anti-terrorism hotline on 0800 789 321.
The attack represents the latest in a series of incidents targeting religious communities across Europe, with security services warning of heightened threats linked to international tensions. Counter Terrorism Policing confirmed they are currently managing more than 800 live investigations across the UK, having disrupted 39 late-stage terror plots since March 2017.
As investigations continue, the focus remains on supporting the traumatised community and preventing further attacks. The three seriously injured victims remain in hospital, with medical teams working to save their lives. The identities of the victims have not yet been released as police continue to notify next of kin.
The tragedy on this most sacred day has united the nation in grief and determination to combat the rising tide of religious hatred threatening community cohesion across Britain.
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