Coalition member, Sheffield Jews Against Israeli Apartheid has issued a statement on the Manchester attack on Yom Kippur 2nd October 2025
As Jews living in Sheffield we feel intense shock and horror at the attack on Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation shul, on Yom Kippur, the holiest day of our calendar.
We mourn those who died and send our love to their families, friends and congregation. We deplore and condemn violence of any kind directed against civilians.
We know that this attack has occurred in the context of rising antisemitism in the UK.
We absolutely reject the weaponization of the attack to suppress protests against the genocide in Gaza. Many, including the Home Secretary, would seek to link the memory of those killed in Manchester to their own desire to repress support for Palestine.
Any attempt to link the Manchester attacks to pro-Palestinian activism in the United Kingdom is unfounded, irresponsible, and dangerous. Such claims risk criminalising legitimate political expression, deepening social polarisation, and diverting attention from the real causes of insecurity. Jewish security will never be achieved by silencing Palestinian voices; it will only be achieved through justice, accountability, and the building of genuine solidarity between communities.
We should instead respond to the attack through community dialogue emphasising solidarity and a commitment to anti racism especially at this time of simmering hatred against migrants in general and Muslims in particular. We know at a time of rising fascism, that Jewish safety is intrinsically linked to the safety of other minorities around us.
Our movements must be built on truth, justice, and solidarity, not fear, hatred, or misinformation.
Let us stand together against all forms of racism and of violence. Let us stand together for justice and for peace.
