MEA calls assault “particularly saddening” on International Day of Non-Violence
India strongly condemned the deadly terrorist attack at the Heaton Park Synagogue in Manchester, United Kingdom, which occurred during Yom Kippur services on Thursday. Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal described the incident as “particularly saddening,” noting that it coincided with the International Day of Non-Violence.
“The attack is yet another grim reminder of the challenge we face from the evil forces of terrorism, which the global community must combat and defeat through united and concerted action,” Jaiswal said. He extended India’s thoughts and prayers to the victims, their families, and the city of Manchester, emphasising solidarity with the people of the UK in their moment of grief.
Details of the attack
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) declared the assault a terrorist incident. Two people were killed and three others injured when the suspect, Jihad Al-Shamie, 35, drove a car into pedestrians outside the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation in Crumpsall and subsequently attacked bystanders with a knife. Armed officers responded within minutes and shot the suspect dead.
Eyewitnesses reported that the attacker attempted to enter the synagogue but was prevented by security personnel. A suspicious device worn by the suspect was later assessed and found to be non-viable. Authorities also stated that no prior referrals related to Al-Shamie had been made under the UK government’s anti-radicalisation scheme, Prevent.
International reactions
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the attack, stating, “Israel grieves with the Jewish community in the UK after the barbaric terror attack in Manchester. Our hearts are with the families of the murdered, and we pray for the swift recovery of the wounded.” He emphasised that strength and unity are essential in combating terrorism.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres also issued a strong condemnation, saying, “Targeting a sacred place of worship where people go to find peace is particularly heinous.” The Israeli Embassy in London described the attack as “abhorrent and deeply distressing.”
Response in the UK
UK officials expressed alarm over the incident. Prime Minister Keir Starmer cut short a foreign trip to chair an emergency COBRA meeting, calling the attack “horrific” and praising police and emergency responders for their rapid action. London Mayor Sadiq Khan announced heightened security outside synagogues across the capital. King Charles said he was “deeply shocked and saddened,” while Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham urged calm and advised residents to avoid the affected area as investigations continue.
The attack, occurring on the holiest day of the Jewish calendar, has sent shockwaves through Britain’s Jewish community and renewed calls for vigilance against extremist threats targeting places of worship.