The recent synagogue attack in Manchester on Yom Kippur, Judaism's holiest day, has left the community reeling, resulting in two fatalities and multiple injuries. The incident, perpetrated by Jihad Al-Shamie, prompted a swift armed police response, which tragically also led to injuries and deaths among victims who were bravely attempting to prevent the attacker from entering the synagogue.

Adrian Daulby, 53, and Melvin Cravitz, 66, both members of the Jewish community, died in the attack that occurred last Thursday, October 2. Adrian Daulby, hailed as a hero by his family and the synagogue's chief executive, Brian Bell, was shot by police while holding a door shut to prevent Al-Shamie from entering. Melvin Cravitz, a beloved and kind man who worked in a kosher supermarket and helped at a food bank, also died. Another worshipper, Yoni Finlay, 50, was seriously injured by police gunfire while barricading the doors. Finlay's son, Uriel, 15, praised his father's heroic actions, stating he "stopped loads of deaths from happening." Both Daulby and Finlay sustained gunshot wounds from Greater Manchester Police's (GMP) Authorised Firearms Officers, an unfortunate consequence as officers worked to end the vicious attack. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has launched an investigation into the use of lethal force by GMP officers, a standard procedure in fatal police shootings, acknowledging the difficult and dynamic situation faced by the officers.

The attacker, 35-year-old Syrian-born British citizen Jihad Al-Shamie, was shot dead by armed police seven minutes after the initial 999 call. Al-Shamie used his black Kia Picanto to ram into worshippers outside the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Crumpsall before proceeding to stab people. He was found wearing what appeared to be a suicide vest, which was later determined to be non-viable. Police investigations suggest Al-Shamie may have been influenced by "extreme Islamist ideology." His past includes sending a death threat to a Conservative MP in 2012 over support for Israel. At the time of the attack, Al-Shamie was on bail for an alleged rape, facing significant debts, and had recently separated from his wife and one-year-old son, living with his mother and brother in Prestwich. Described by neighbours as a "loner" who often appeared dishevelled, his early life videos online depicted a cheerful child, showing no hint of the future tragedy. He was not known to counter-terrorism agencies or the government's Prevent program. Six people have since been arrested on suspicion of terror offences in connection with the attack.

The attack has deeply shaken the Jewish community in Manchester and across the UK. A vigil held near the synagogue saw Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary David Lammy booed and heckled by attendees. Many expressed anger and disappointment with the Labour government, accusing it of enabling terrorism and allowing hatred to grow on streets and campuses. Speakers at the vigil, including Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham and GMP Chief Constable Sir Stephen Watson, offered solidarity and pledged continued efforts to protect the community. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood condemned pro-Palestine marches following the attack and urged demonstrators to "step back." Recently resigned Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner also attended the vigil.

In the aftermath of such traumatic events, psychotherapist Sarie Taylor offered crucial advice for parents to help children and teens cope. She stressed the importance of acknowledging their feelings, encouraging open conversations, and providing age-appropriate explanations, ensuring a balance in discussion. Taylor also highlighted the need to guide healthy social media use, maintain normal routines to foster stability, and focus on positive actions to empower children. Parents are also reminded to care for their own wellbeing, as their calmness can greatly support their children. Seeking professional support is advised if children struggle with prolonged anxiety or other issues.

The Manchester attack also coincided with heightened tensions around protest activities. The group 'Defend Our Juries' (DOJ), known for its support of climate activists and Palestine Action, announced plans for a "mass action" protest in London. This decision came despite requests from the Metropolitan Police to postpone, citing the significant strain on police resources following the Manchester terror attack and the need for visible reassurance in London communities. DOJ, led by Tim Crosland, has garnered notoriety for challenging legal norms and supporting various left-wing causes, including Palestine Action, which has been proscribed as a terrorist organization. Their defiance underscores a broader societal debate on freedom of protest versus public safety and resource allocation in times of national emergency.