India firmly condemns the terror attack on Manchester’s Heaton Park Synagogue on Yom Kippur, which occurred on October 2, 2025. Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), expressed great regret that this horrific act was committed on International Day of Nonviolence, describing the attack as a grim reminder of the global threat presented by terrorists.
India emphasized the importance of the global community coming together to confront terrorism by concerted action, sending thoughts and prayers to the victims, their families, and the city of Manchester in solidarity with the United Kingdom during this difficult time.
The attack occurred in Manchester’s Crumpsall neighborhood, when an assailant rammed a car into pedestrians gathered outside the synagogue and stabbed a security guard at the gates. At least two people were killed, while three more were seriously injured. Police shot the accused attacker, who is thought to have died.
Worshippers inside the synagogue were evacuated safely as emergency services responded quickly. Greater Manchester Police declared Operation Plato, a national code for armed response to ongoing attacks, and upgraded security at Jewish sites across the UK.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the attack as particularly horrific due to its occurrence on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, and assured enhanced police presence to protect Jewish communities.
The UK’s Counter Terrorism Policing confirmed the attack as an act of terrorism, with authorities mobilizing specialist teams and increasing patrols to reassure affected communities. Two additional arrests were made during the investigation.
The Israeli embassy in London, as well as other authorities throughout the world, denounced the attack, emphasizing the heinous nature of targeting a house of worship on such a holy day. The act is viewed as an attack on the Jewish community and interfaith relations, and local officials have pledged togetherness and resilience in response.
India, along with other global allies, strongly condemns the tragedy, calling it a sobering reminder of the ongoing struggle against terror and emphasizing the need of global cooperation in defeating terrorism.
