Keir Starmer has commended the courage of emergency services and security personnel for averting a potentially more catastrophic outcome following a terrorist incident at a synagogue in Manchester.
In a statement released from No10, the Prime Minister extended his sympathies to the families of the victims and all those affected by the “horrific incident.” He assured the Jewish community that the nation will unite in the days ahead to offer support.
“I assure you that in the upcoming days, you will witness the compassionate, decent, and loving side of Britain,” stated Mr. Starmer.
Expressing condolences on behalf of the nation to the affected families and victims, Mr. Starmer expressed gratitude to the Greater Manchester police, first responders, and security specialists for their courageous actions in preventing a more significant tragedy.
The Prime Minister’s Europe trip was curtailed to convene an emergency Cobra meeting in London following the attack, where two members of the Jewish community lost their lives during the synagogue assault. Additionally, four others sustained serious injuries as worshippers gathered on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar.
Mr. Starmer, accompanied by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, and senior officials during the Cobra meeting, highlighted the resurgence of anti-Semitic sentiments in the country, emphasizing the need for heightened security measures for Jewish institutions.
He pledged to increase visible police presence to ensure the safety of the Jewish community, stating, “I am committed to utilizing all available resources to provide you with the security you rightly deserve.”
Addressing the Jewish population directly, the Prime Minister acknowledged the fear they might be experiencing and vowed to take necessary actions to ensure their security, including enhanced police protection and community safeguarding measures.
He assured, “In the days to come, you will witness the compassionate, decent, and loving side of Britain as we come together to support your community and demonstrate that the UK is a place where you are safe, secure, and valued.”