London, Oct 2 (NationPress) The Israeli Embassy in the United Kingdom issued a strong condemnation of the stabbing incident that occurred near a synagogue in Manchester. They described the event as abhorrent and deeply distressing, particularly since it resulted in the loss of two lives on the holiest day in the Jewish calendar.

The Embassy confirmed it is liaising with Manchester's Jewish community, British authorities, and the Community Security Trust (CST) to keep track of the situation and to ensure appropriate support is available.

In a statement posted on X, the Embassy said, "The Embassy of Israel in the United Kingdom condemns the attack that occurred today on Yom Kippur at the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Manchester. The fact that such a violent act took place on a sacred day, within a place of worship and community, is truly shocking."

The Embassy expressed gratitude to the Greater Manchester Police for their rapid response, emphasizing that the safety and security of Jewish communities across the United Kingdom must be a priority. Their thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families, and the broader Jewish community during this challenging time.

This statement follows reports that at least two individuals lost their lives and three others sustained injuries during a mass stabbing incident near the synagogue in Manchester.

UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood expressed her horror regarding the attack, especially given its occurrence on the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. She encouraged the public to heed emergency service advice.

Mahmood stated, "I am horrified by the news of an attack at a synagogue in Manchester today. My thoughts are with the victims and our courageous police and emergency services. I am in touch with Greater Manchester Police for updates, and I urge everyone to follow their guidance."

Local authorities confirmed that three others were injured and were in serious condition. The incident took place outside the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue, according to law enforcement officials.

Police reports indicate that injuries were caused by both vehicle and stabbing incidents, with witnesses claiming to have seen a car directed towards a crowd. Firearms officers were dispatched to the scene.

Authorities indicated that responding officers shot a third person, believed to be the assailant. However, the confirmation of the suspect's death is pending due to safety concerns regarding suspicious items found on him. A bomb disposal unit was deployed to the location.

Classified as a major incident, the police labeled it a "PLATO" designation, a law enforcement term indicating it was being treated as a potential terrorist attack, according to ABC News. This incident occurred on Yom Kippur, considered the most sacred day in the Jewish calendar.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed his dismay, announcing he would lead a COBRA (government emergency committee) meeting upon his return to London.

Starmer noted that the timing of the attack on Yom Kippur "makes it all the more horrific." He extended his condolences to the families affected and expressed appreciation to emergency services and first responders.

Starmer stated, "I am appalled by the attack at a synagogue in Crumpsall. The fact that this has taken place on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, makes it all the more horrific. My thoughts are with the loved ones of all those affected, and I thank the emergency services and all first responders."

Addressing the media before returning to the UK, Starmer remarked, "The attack in Manchester this morning is absolutely shocking, and all of our thoughts are with those affected. I am on my way back to London to chair an emergency Cobra meeting. Additional police resources are being deployed to synagogues nationwide, as we will do everything possible to ensure the safety of our Jewish community."