One of the most heartbreaking incidents this week occurred at a Manchester synagogue. Between all of the physical, emotional, and psychological trauma that attack caused—and especially the loss of life of these two men—what can we learn from that tragedy? The attacker, named Jihad al-Shamie, was said to be unarmed at the time of the attack. One of those victims, Adrian Daulby, actually perished after being unintentionally shot by police. Melvin Cravitz was the second victim drawn into the racist attack. Community leaders and government officials have denounced it uproariously.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood responding to the attack calling on organizers of pro-Palestinian events scheduled this coming weekend to “reconsider.” She reminds us that in such a charged time, it is critical to move with care. This incident, along with ongoing tensions surrounding pro-Palestinian protests, has prompted discussions about the responsibilities of event organizers and the role of law enforcement during such gatherings.
Chief Constable Stephen Watson of Greater Manchester Police assured the public that al-Shamie had no prior record with police before the attack. He testified that al-Shamie was unarmed at the time of the alleged offense. This revelation led to greater scrutiny of public safety spending. Yet, it has succeeded in raising doubts about police ability to respond swiftly enough to an active threat.
The attack not only took the life of Daulby but seriously injured another man with non-life-threatening gunshot injuries. Following the tragic event, Manchester United Football Club was the first to respond, promptly announcing plans to observe a minute’s silence before their next match. In addition, they’ll have players don black armbands to remember the victims.
The chief rabbi expressed deep concern over what he described as an “unrelenting wave of hatred against Jews.” His statement resounds with the frustration of local leaders across the country. Particularly, they have condemned the recent surge in anti–Semitism and violence.
Following the attack, members of law enforcement are treating the armed officers involved in the gunfire as witnesses as investigations continue. Senior police leaders have been forthright about the environment in which they are trying to promote public safety. They are especially concerned about the upcoming protests in support of Palestine Action. Sir Mark Rowley, the new head of the Metropolitan Police, made a dire threat. Anyone even remotely inciting violence will see immediate police intervention and swift charges against any such offenders who demonstrate illegal behavior.
“The horrific attack in Manchester has caused significant fear and concern in communities across the UK, including here in London. Yet at a time when we want to be deploying every available officer to ensure the safety of those communities, we are instead having to plan for a gathering of more than 1,000 people in Trafalgar Square on Saturday in support of a terrorist organisation.” – Sir Mark Rowley
In reaction to demands to cancel or delay protests, organizers have pushed back hard against police and government requests. Not only are they canceling the peaceful demonstration, but they’re giving in to the terror.
“Cancelling peaceful protests lets terror win. It’s more important than ever to defend our democracy, including our fundamental rights to peaceful protest and freedom of speech, and to take a stand tomorrow against killing and against oppression, and for peace and justice for all.” – Defend Our Juries
The unfolding crisis has spurred national discussions on how to responsibly address these evolving issues and prioritize the safety of our communities. Jonathan Hall KC highlighted the need for authorities to have clear powers to manage public gatherings in the wake of terrorist threats.
“We have also been strengthened by the countless expressions of solidarity that have poured in, not only from across the Jewish community but from faith leaders, from political leaders and from neighbours of every background. In our darkest hour, you have shown us that we do not stand alone. Your embrace reminds us that love and compassion remain stronger than hate.”
Even as unrest and anger persists, appeals for empathy and solidarity between our communities are needed now more than ever. Rabbi Jonathan Wittenberg underscored the role social media has played in discord and hate, igniting fear and destruction in communities across the world.
“If there is an urgent case where police need resources to deal with the aftermath of a terrorist attack, I am surprised there is no power to ban a march or assembly in these specific circumstances.” – Jonathan Hall KC
The tragic events in Manchester show us just how fragile that peace can be within our communities. They stress the imminent need for discussion and collaboration among different communities to foster awareness and diminish aggression.
“The stoking of hatred and the stoking of fear is really profoundly, profoundly wrong, and social media has a lot to answer for. And so do people who don’t appreciate the vulnerability that others feel and how much we need to be humanity together.” – Jonathan Wittenberg
The tragic events in Manchester serve as a reminder of the fragility of peace within communities and highlight the urgent need for dialogue and cooperation among diverse groups to foster understanding and diminish hostility.