The Muslim Jewish Leadership Council (MJLC) unequivocally condemns the attempted attack at the Manchester Central Mosque earlier this week. This incident is not an isolated occurrence but part of a deeply troubling pattern of increasingly frequent attacks and attempted attacks targeting mosques across the United Kingdom. Such acts of hatred threaten not only Muslim communities, but the safety, cohesion, and democratic values of society as a whole.

It is becoming ever more evident that stronger and more coordinated action is required to safeguard places of worship. Without meaningful preventative measures, it is only a matter of time before an attempted attack of this nature results in devastating loss of life. The protection of religious institutions must be treated as a national priority.

We express our profound gratitude to the courageous community members who placed themselves at risk to protect others and prevent potential tragedy. Their bravery and swift response undoubtedly averted far more serious consequences. We also commend the professionalism and rapid intervention of the Greater Manchester Police for their decisive action in apprehending those responsible. Without their combined efforts, this frightening incident could have had far graver outcomes.

This attack must also be understood within a wider context of rising hatred directed at religious minorities. The attempted attack in Manchester follows other deeply disturbing incidents, including the attack during Yom Kippur in Manchester last year, which targeted members of the Jewish community at a time of prayer and reflection. Together, these incidents underscore a dangerous reality: anti-Muslim hatred and antisemitism are both increasing in frequency and intensity, creating an environment in which hostility is normalised and violence is facilitated.

While long-term strategies such as education, interfaith engagement, and the strengthening of social cohesion are essential to addressing the root causes of prejudice, there is an urgent need for immediate and tangible security measures to ensure the safety and well-being of religious minorities throughout the United Kingdom.

Decisive action, developed in close coordination with affected communities, law enforcement, and policymakers, is essential. Without it, the frequency and severity of such incidents risk escalating further. The MJLC stands ready to work with partners across society to advance both preventative and protective measures that uphold the fundamental right of every individual to worship in safety and dignity.