Keir Starmer will be departing a European conference in Denmark ahead of schedule to lead an urgent Cobra meeting following an assault on a synagogue in Manchester.
The Prime Minister expressed shock and dismay over the incident, stating that extra police resources are being dispatched to synagogues nationwide.
In a message, he condemned the attack at a synagogue in Crumpsall, particularly noting the timing on Yom Kippur, the most sacred day in the Jewish calendar, which added to the severity of the situation.
The PM curtailed his attendance at the European Political Community (EPC) gathering in Copenhagen after a car struck members of the public, resulting in four injuries and a stabbing outside the synagogue, with two fatalities confirmed by GMP.
Following a police response in Middleton Road, Crumpsall, where a man, believed to be the assailant, was shot by firearms officers, GMP invoked “Plato,” the national code-word for responding to a terrorist incident.
Before returning to the UK, Mr. Starmer described the Manchester attack as appalling and assured enhanced security measures for synagogues nationwide to protect the Jewish community.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, expressing horror at the assault, emphasized the need to support the victims, police, and emergency services, urging the public to heed official guidance.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting conveyed deep concern over the Manchester incident, offering support to the Jewish community during this solemn period.
Tory leader Kemi Badenoch denounced the heinous attack on the synagogue on Yom Kippur, extending sympathy to those affected and reassuring the Jewish community of solidarity.
GMP declared a major incident following the assault, with shots fired by police at the scene and emergency services attending to injured individuals, urging the public to avoid the area.
Mr. Starmer’s visit to Copenhagen aimed at discussions on Ukraine and migration with European counterparts was overshadowed by the tragic events in Manchester, where he highlighted cooperation with other nations as a crucial response strategy.
The PM’s recent policy changes to deter small boat crossings and restrict automatic settlement and family reunions for asylum seekers were met with mixed reactions, with Mr. Starmer arguing for increased support for Ukraine and pressure on Putin.
In light of recent events, the focus shifted from international affairs to domestic security concerns, prompting a swift response from UK authorities and leaders to address the unfolding situation.