Keir Starmer will be leaving a European summit in Denmark ahead of schedule to lead an emergency Cobra meeting following an assault on a synagogue in Manchester.
Expressing his dismay over the incident, the Prime Minister stated on social media, “I’m shocked by the assault at a synagogue in Crumpsall. The timing of this occurrence on Yom Kippur, the most sacred day in the Jewish calendar, intensifies the tragedy. My thoughts are with the families of those impacted, and my gratitude goes out to the emergency services and first responders.”
The Prime Minister curtailed his participation in the European Political Community (EPC) conference in Copenhagen after a car struck members of the public, resulting in injuries, and an individual was stabbed outside a synagogue.
Following the incident on Middleton Road in Crumpsall, where Greater Manchester Police (GMP) intervened, a man, believed to be the perpetrator, was shot by armed officers. GMP activated “Plato,” the national code-word for responding to a terrorist attack.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood expressed her horror at the assault, emphasizing her concern for the victims, law enforcement, and emergency services. She urged the public to heed the guidance from emergency responders.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting conveyed his shock at the news, offering support to the Jewish community on this significant day.
GMP declared a major incident at 9:37 am, with shots fired by police officers at 9:38 am. Paramedics arrived on-site promptly to assist injured individuals, urging the public to stay clear of the area during the ongoing police operation.
Keir Starmer, who had been engaged in discussions with European leaders regarding Ukraine and migration in Copenhagen, emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing illegal migration and supporting Ukraine in the face of Russian pressure.
The Prime Minister recently announced changes to asylum policies, including the cessation of automatic settlement and family reunion rights to deter illegal crossings, a move supported by Mr. Starmer.