UK on High Alert as Synagogue Attack Leaves Two Dead
The United Kingdom was placed on high alert Thursday after a terror attack outside a synagogue in Manchester left at least two people dead and several others injured during Yom Kippur, one of the holiest days in the Jewish calendar.
According to police, the attacker drove a vehicle into pedestrians near the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation before launching a stabbing spree. He was shot dead by armed officers minutes after the assault began.
Authorities later confirmed that the attacker appeared to be wearing a suicide vest, which was later found to be fake.
Greater Manchester Police said two people were killed in the attack, while multiple victims were rushed to hospitals with serious injuries.
The incident, which took place on October 2, is being treated as a terrorist act.
Three additional suspects have been arrested in connection with the case as counterterrorism officers investigate possible accomplices and motives.
Home Secretary James Cleverly described the attack as “barbaric” and said the UK remains on “high alert.”
He announced that security would be tightened around synagogues, Jewish schools, and other community centers nationwide.
“This government stands with Britain’s Jewish community in absolute solidarity,” he said.
The Metropolitan Police in London also confirmed increased patrols near synagogues in the capital, though they stressed there is no immediate threat to the city.
MI5 and counterterrorism units are reviewing intelligence to determine whether further plots are underway.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak condemned the assault as “a horrific act of antisemitic terrorism” and praised the quick police response, which he said prevented further loss of life.
“We will never allow those who seek to divide us through hate to succeed,” he said.
The attack comes amid heightened tensions globally, with UK officials warning of a rise in antisemitic threats linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Security analysts say Jewish communities are at particular risk around religious holidays and symbolic dates.
Authorities urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity as the national terror threat level, currently at “substantial,” is kept under review.
