Police authorities have identified the individual responsible for the Manchester synagogue assault as Jihad al-Shamie. The 35-year-old suspect is a British national with Syrian heritage. Two men in their 30s and a woman in her 60s have been detained on suspicion of involvement in the attack, according to Greater Manchester Police.
Alarming visuals depict al-Shamie wearing a ‘bomb belt’ and later found deceased on the ground with a blade and ‘bomb’ nearby, which authorities confirmed was non-functional. Following the morning attack at the synagogue, multiple individuals sustained injuries, with four individuals in critical condition. Security measures have been implemented around the Heaton Park synagogue, with law enforcement, medical personnel, bomb disposal units, and firefighters present at the scene.
Initially declared a major incident by Greater Manchester Police (GMP), the attack prompted additional arrests as confirmed by Metropolitan Police’s Head of Counter Terrorism Policing, Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor. Holocaust Memorial Day Trust chief executive, Olivia Marks-Woldman OBE, condemned antisemitism and emphasized the need to combat such hatred whenever it emerges.
Furthermore, a pro-Palestine demonstration is underway at Manchester Piccadilly station in response to Israel’s interception of a Gaza-bound aid flotilla. The pre-planned protest, occurring near the site of the morning’s terror incident, has sparked online criticism.
In the aftermath of the tragic event, Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham denounced the assault as a despicable act of antisemitism and urged unity in support of the Jewish community. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood vowed to enhance security measures for the Jewish community and provide answers following the attack.
As investigations continue, law enforcement officials are cautioning against sharing sensitive content online. Greater Manchester Police Chief Constable Stephen Watson expressed condolences for the victims and emphasized the ongoing support for those affected.
Political figures including Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have condemned the attack and pledged solidarity with the affected communities. Additionally, the Royal Family has extended their sympathies to the victims and their families. Meetings and statements from key officials are expected to provide updates and reassurance to the public in the wake of this tragic event.
