A knife attack outside a synagogue in Manchester, UK, on Thursday morning (02.10.2025) left two dead and four injured. The attacker was shot dead by police, authorities confirmed. Bomb disposal units arrived at the scene with robots after images showed the suspect wearing a thick vest with white objects attached during the assault. Police initially reported two fatalities from the attack, while a third person—likely the attacker—was also found dead, though this was not immediately confirmed due to suspicious items on his body. Three others remain in serious condition.
Around 9:30 a.m., a car struck pedestrians outside the Manchester synagogue before the driver, armed with a knife, attempted to enter the building. Armed officers responded instantly and neutralized the suspect. Police immediately activated counter-terrorism protocol PLATO and cordoned off the area. The Daily Mail published video showing the suspect behind the synagogue’s railings near the entrance.
Terrorism expert David Smallwood told Sky News the bomb disposal robot ‘can be used for a more detailed inspection of any suspicious items,’ noting that while tragic, such procedures are now ‘well-tested practice.’ He added that a thorough forensic investigation will follow, including analysis of the suspect’s social media, home, and vehicles.
Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham urged residents to avoid the area, assuring the immediate threat had passed. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the attack ‘horrific,’ while King Charles expressed deep sorrow. The incident occurred on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in Judaism, amplifying its symbolic impact.
Security has been heightened around synagogues across the UK. Prime Minister Starmer, ‘absolutely shocked’ by the events, cut short a trip to Copenhagen to return to London and chair an emergency Cobra meeting. ‘We will do everything to protect our Jewish community,’ he pledged.
The Community Security Trust (CST) confirmed close coordination with police, advising worshippers to avoid gathering outside communal buildings and to keep synagogues secured at all times. The Israeli Embassy in London said it is monitoring developments in close cooperation with CST and UK authorities.
In London, Mayor Sadiq Khan announced increased police patrols around synagogues to ‘reassure worshippers’ and ensure a visible security presence.
The British Muslim Trust, a government-funded body monitoring Islamophobia, condemned the attack as ‘abhorrent’ and ‘outrageous.’ Its director, Akeela Ahmed, stated: ‘We utterly condemn this shameful attack and express our support for those now healing from its wounds.’ She warned against attempts to exploit the violence to deepen divisions.
The Manchester Mosque Council called for unity and restraint: ‘It is vital in moments like this that we stand together, reject hatred, and jointly defend peace, justice, and respect for all.’
The attacker’s identity and motives remain unknown as the investigation continues.