The mayor has announced an increase in police presence around synagogues in London following a tragic incident in Manchester where two individuals lost their lives and three others were injured in a car attack coupled with stabbings.
This event occurred on Thursday morning, coinciding with Yom Kippur, the most sacred day in the Jewish calendar.
London’s Mayor, Sir Sadiq Khan, stated, “I have been in communication with the Mayor of Manchester, Andy Burnham, the home secretary, and police officials. The Metropolitan Police will enhance their visibility around synagogues in London.”
The Metropolitan Police has been approached for a statement.
Sir Keir Starmer remarked that “extra police resources” would be assigned to synagogues nationwide as he returned to the UK for a Cobra meeting in response to the emergency.
He emphasized, “We are committed to ensuring the safety of our Jewish community.”
Sir Sadiq further expressed, “As Jewish individuals around the world observe Yom Kippur, it is deeply unsettling to witness this disturbing attack on a synagogue in Manchester. I want to provide reassurance that there will be additional police officers in London, allowing people to practice their faith in safety.”
He lamented, “Sadly, many Jewish Londoners, as well as Jewish individuals across the UK and the world, do not feel secure. That is truly heartbreaking.”
The Manchester incident took place at the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in the Crumpsall area, located in the northern part of the city.
Authorities responded at 09:31 BST to reports of a vehicle heading toward a group of pedestrians and a subsequent stabbing incident.
By 09:37, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) had classified the situation as a major incident.
Sir Keir expressed his shock at the “horrific” assault, stating, “My heart goes out to the families of all those affected, and I extend my gratitude to the emergency responders and first aid teams. The occurrence of this event on Yom Kippur, the holiest day for Jews, makes it even more appalling.”
