On the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, a wave of shock hit Manchester as a car ramming and stabbing unfolded outside a synagogue. Two Jewish worshippers lost their lives in the attack, which authorities are treating as terrorism.
The incident took place during Yom Kippur, when families gather for fasting and prayer. Witnesses described hearing screams and seeing the suspect strike pedestrians before exiting his vehicle with a knife. Police say the assailant, identified as 35-year-old British citizen of Syrian origin Jihad Al-Shamie, was shot dead at the scene.
Local and global leaders have condemned the violence. The mayor of Manchester called it a brutal act undermining the unity of diverse communities. Jewish groups in the city are mourning amid heightened security across places of worship.
Experts note a recent uptick in hate-motivated incidents in Europe, urging governments to strengthen protections for religious sites. Digital campaigns are now amplifying messages of solidarity, with #StandWithManchester trending on social platforms.
As investigators piece together the motive, communities worldwide are lighting candles and sharing prayers online. For many young global citizens, this assault underscores the urgent need for vigilance, empathy, and cross-cultural dialogue.
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Live: View near scene of deadly attack at UK synagogue in Manchester
cgtn.com
