Tragedy on Yom Kippur: Attack Near Synagogue Shocks England

On Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, a violent attack near a synagogue in Manchester, England, left at least two people dead and three injured. The assailant, who allegedly carried a bomb, drove into pedestrians and stabbed a security guard, prompting a swift police response.

The Greater Manchester Police shot the suspect, who was believed to be dead, preventing a possible further attack inside the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue. The area was secured amid concerns of suspicious items found on the suspect, with bomb disposal teams called to the scene.

The attack has heightened security around synagogues, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressing appall at the timing on Yom Kippur. Rising antisemitism remains a concern in Britain, with record incidents reported in 2024. Authorities continue to monitor threats from both Islamist and far-right extremism.

(With inputs from agencies.)