OPINION – KEIR STARMER: Respect the grief of British Jews this weekend
Prime minister writes for Jewish News in response to Manchester shul attack, calling on Palestine Action demonstrators to recognise the grief of British Jews
On Thursday evening, many British Jews across the country turned their phones back on after marking Yom Kippur.
They were met, not with the well wishes of family and friends, but with the horrific news of an attack at a synagogue in Manchester. Whilst Jewish communities spent time in prayer, reflecting on the possibility of renewal and redemption, a hatred as old as their faith was stirring.
This is a hatred and violence that Jews have lived with for thousands of years. But it is one that has shamefully reared its head afresh in our communities in the past years.
Antisemitism is rising. Every week, every day, Jewish schools and synagogues rely on round the clock security – often from dedicated volunteers – because they know the threat of antisemitic hatred is real and dangerous.
We have seen Jewish shops vandalised and defaced in recent years. Antisemitic slurs and threats on our streets have made parents feel unsafe sending their children to school in their uniforms.
Picture date: Friday October 3, 2025.
PA Wire
This did not begin after October 7th. But there is no denying that the impact of world events has taken its toll on Jewish communities here in Britain, not only in fears for family abroad but fears for family much closer to home.
A horrific attack like this reminds us of the dangers Jews face simply because of who they are. Our thoughts remain with the victims and their families, as well as the wider community. Our gratitude goes to the first responders and emergency services, as well as those brave people who prevented this from being an even greater tragedy.
Across the country, people are reaching out in sorrow and solidarity. We stand firm in saying this is not who we are, and this is not what we stand for. Our Jewish neighbours are part of our communities and our country – the attack yesterday was an attack on us all.
For the government, that means taking action to guarantee your security. The police will provide a more visible presence around places of worship, transport hubs and schools. We will continue to work with the Jewish community, listening to their concerns and making sure that protection is as strong as it can be.
I know that planned protests over the weekend, just a few days before the anniversary of the October 7th attacks, as well as in the shadow of the Manchester attack, will cause distress.
Peaceful protest is a cornerstone of our democracy – and there is justified concern about the suffering in Gaza – but a minority have used these protests as a pretext for stoking antisemitic tropes.
I urge anyone thinking about protesting this weekend to recognise and respect the grief of British Jews this week. This is a moment of mourning. It is not a time to stoke tension and cause further pain.
This is still the country that was proud to be a refuge during World War Two.
This is still a country that prides itself on its values of tolerance, diversity and respect.
A country that welcomes all people, no matter their faith, to stand under the same flag together, as neighbours and friends. It is our flag that flew over Bergen Belsen concentration camp as it was liberated, a symbol of safety and freedom That is who we will always be – and hatred and violence will never win.
The final word must remain with those who lost their lives and those who mourn them. Adrian Daulby and Melvin Cravitz. May their memories be a blessing.
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