On October 2, 2025, a coordinated assault devastated the area surrounding the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation synagogue in Crumpsall, just north of Manchester. At least three people perished, and more than 80 others were injured in this heartbreaking nightmare. The attack occurred on Yom Kippur, the holiest day on the Jewish calendar. This timing deepened the shock and horror felt by the community.
Indeed, as reported by the UK news media, the assailant first slammed a car into pedestrians before beginning—or rather continuing—his knife attack. Emergency responders quickly arrived within this heart of the city with armed officers shooting the suspected assailant, who reportedly died at the scene. Jewish leaders said the incident has frightened the Jewish community. Lately, they, like us, have been reeling from a spike in antisemitic assaults.
Of those seriously wounded, three of the victims are said to be in critical condition. The attack occurred against the backdrop of heightened tensions following Hamas’ attacks on southern Israel and the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Rabbi Jonathan Romain, emeritus rabbi of Maidenhead Synagogue, said he was horrified by what was unbearable violence. He described the incident as “every Jewish person’s worst nightmare.” As Benjamin’s story shows, this is a fear that took hold of Jewish communities in recent months and became quite overwhelming.
Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla sent a message of condolence expressing how they were “deeply shocked and saddened” by the attack.
“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.” – Britain’s King Charles III
Prime Minister Keir Starmer responded swiftly, pledging to “do everything to keep our Jewish community safe.” After the attack, he announced that more police resources would be sent to protect synagogues throughout the United Kingdom.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this appalling incident and we greatly appreciate the swift actions of the emergency services.” – Britain’s King Charles III
Starmer’s willingness to chair an emergency meeting suggests he understands this. The UK government’s COBRA committee will meet to discuss reassuring security after yesterday’s attack.
The recent attack has underscored the need to understand the larger issue of what happens when international violence seeps into our own country. As one commentator noted, “The real tragedy is, of course that the war in Gaza, which is tragic in itself, has sort of spilled over into the United Kingdom.”
