We are deeply horrified by the attack on the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Crumpsall, Greater Manchester this morning on Yom Kippur. For years, British Jews have faced a significant rise in anti-Semitism across our nation, resulting in numerous incidents right here in Barnet and throughout Greater London.
This is a worrying trend that has resulted in the most severe of consequences on the most holy of days for our Jewish community. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the families who have lost loved ones in this tragic event.
Such an attack is not only a crime against the Jewish community but an attack on the values of decency, tolerance, and respect that underpin British society. It is a stark reminder of the urgent need for greater protections for faith communities and for renewed efforts to stamp out anti-Semitism wherever it takes root.
We call on political leaders, law enforcement, and civic institutions to take concrete action to ensure that Jewish people in the UK can live, worship, and contribute to society without fear. Words of condemnation must be matched with practical steps to enhance security, challenge hate, and bring those responsible for such acts of violence to justice.