On Thursday, October 2nd, 2025, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer addressed the nation from 10 Downing Street following a devastating terror attack at the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation synagogue in Crumpsall, Manchester. Two innocent lives were lost and four others were seriously injured in what can only be described as a senseless act of hate.
In his powerful speech, Prime Minister Starmer condemned the attack and expressed his condolences to the victims and their families. He also took the opportunity to address the wider issue of rising anti-Semitism in the UK.
With a heavy heart, Starmer stated, “Britain must defeat it once again.” It was a reminder that anti-Semitism is not a new hate, but something that the Jewish community has unfortunately always had to deal with. But now, it is on the rise once again, and it is the responsibility of the entire nation to stand up against it.
The attack took place on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, when members of the Jewish community were gathered to pray and observe their religious traditions. It was a day of peace and reflection, but it was shattered by the violence of an individual who targeted the synagogue simply because it was a place of worship for Jews.
Starmer expressed his gratitude to the police and emergency services who responded to the attack, preventing an even greater tragedy. But he also acknowledged that this is not the first time that the Jewish community has been targeted in such a manner. He spoke directly to Britain’s Jews, assuring them that he will do everything in his power to guarantee their safety and security.
He stated, “Britain is a place where Jewish families have always found refuge and a home. But it is also a place where Jewish buildings, synagogues, and even schools require round-the-clock protection. This is not something that should be happening in a country that prides itself on standing up to hate and providing a safe haven for all.”
The prime minister acknowledged the historical significance of the Jewish community in Britain, where many families found refuge after fleeing the horrors of the Holocaust. He pointed out that it was the support and acceptance of the British people that made this possible. But he also acknowledged that this is not the reality for many Jewish families today.
Jewish buildings and institutions require dedicated, specialist security due to the daily threat of anti-Semitic hatred. This is a reality that no community should have to live with, and it is up to all of us to take a stand against it.
Starmer assured the Jewish community that over the coming days, they will see the true spirit of Britain – one of compassion, decency, and love. He promised that the nation will come together to wrap their arms around the community and show them that they are not alone. He emphasized that Britain is a place where every individual, regardless of their faith, is safe, secure, and belongs.
In the aftermath of this horrific attack, it is important to remember that this is not just an attack on the Jewish community, it is an attack on British values. It is a reminder that hatred and bigotry have no place in our society. Prime Minister Starmer’s speech serves as a call to action for all of us to stand together against anti-Semitism and all forms of hate.
As the nation mourns the loss of innocent lives, we must also come together to support the Jewish community and show them that they are an integral part of British society. We must make it clear that hate and violence will not divide us, but rather, bring us closer together.
In his closing remarks, Prime Minister Starmer said, “Britain will not be defined by this act of hate. We will be defined by our response – one of unity, strength, and love. Together, we will defeat this rising tide of anti-Semitism. Together, we will make sure that Britain remains a place where every individual is safe, secure, and belongs.”
Let us honor the victims of this attack by standing together as a united nation, rejecting hate and embracing love and compassion towards one another. Let us make sure that Britain is a place where all communities can thrive and live without fear. Let us make sure that this devastating attack will not be in vain.
