Keir Starmer To Chair Emergency COBRA Meeting After Synagogue Terror Attack
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Keir Starmer will chair an emergency COBRA meeting after two people were killed in a terrorist attack at a synagogue in Manchester.
Greater Manchester Police has confirmed that two members of the Jewish community were killed in the attack at Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in north Manchester on Thursday morning.
A third person, the offender, is also dead after being shot by police. The attacker was wearing a "vest with the appearance of an explosive device".
A GMP spokesperson said they believe they know the suspect's identity and have declared the attack a terrorist incident. Police officers have made two further arrests, while three members of the public remain in serious condition.
The Prime Minister left the European Political Community meeting in Copenhagen early to chair an emergency COBRA meeting in Westminster.
“I’m appalled by the attack at a synagogue in Crumpsall. The fact that this has taken place on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, makes it all the more horrific.
“My thoughts are with the loved ones of all those affected, and my thanks go to the emergency services and all the first responders," the PM said in a statement before the deaths were confirmed.
Greater Manchester Police said firearms officers were sent to the synagogue this morning after a member of the public reported a car being driven towards members of the public and another person being stabbed.
King Charles said he and the Queen were "deeply shocked" to learn of the attack, especially on Yom Kippur.
He said: "My wife and I have been deeply shocked and saddened to learn of the horrific attack in Manchester, especially on such a significant day for the Jewish community.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this appalling incident and we greatly appreciate the swift actions of the emergency services."
Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham told BBC Radio Manchester: “Today is Yom Kippur, as I understand, and obviously I think that explains why people were around, why there were a number of people gathered outside the synagogue, and why lots of people were attending a service.
“We understand this is a situation that probably is linked to the fact it is Yom Kippur, a day of celebration for the Jewish community. We can only imagine how people are feeling when they hear this news. The fear this will bring.”
The London Metropolitan Police confirmed it was stepping up its operation to protect synagogues, community venues and boroughs with large Jewish populations in the capital. This is in addition to the officers who have already been deployed in those areas as part of existing police plans on Yom Kippur.
Leader of the Opposition Kemi Badenoch said: "This was a vile and disgusting attack on a synagogue in Manchester. On Yom Kippur – the holiest day of the Jewish year – families gathered in prayer were targets for violence.
"My heart goes out to all those hurt and affected. I know many in our Jewish community will feel shaken. They deserve to know they are not alone."
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage and Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey both said they were "horrified" by the attack and thanked the emergency services in Manchester.
