Keep the poison off our streets

Faith leaders call for calm after 'tsunami' of hatred against Jews

- BY LUCY THORNTON, HOLLIE BONE and PHIL CARDY

FAITH leaders urged people to stand united against hatred last night after the deadly attack on a synagogue.

British Jews told how they have suffered a tsunami of hatred since the IsraelHamas war in Gaza began in October 2023. They said the atrocity in Manchester was their worst nightmare. However leaders of all faiths called for calm as police investigate.

Imam Qari Asim, co-chair of the British Muslim Network, said: “The bloodshed and violence in the Middle East, which is excruciatingly painful to witness for all of us, must not be allowed to poison our streets in Britain.

“We cannot ignore the growing tide of religious hatred. Whether it is Islamophobia, anti-Semitism or any form of bigotry, we must confront it together with unity and courage.”

And the Manchester Council of Mosques said: “Manchester has always been a city where people of all faiths and backgrounds live side by side. Any attempt to divide us with violence or hatred will fail, we remain united in our commitment to peace and mutual respect.”

Brendan Cox, widower of murdered Labour MP Jo Cox, said: “The whole country will come together in disgust, condemnation and horror at this attack.”