Family of Manchester synagogue attacker condemn ‘heinous act’
Relatives of Jihad Al-Shamie issue statement distancing themselves from attack
Last updated 3rd Oct 2025
The family of the man behind the Manchester synagogue attack have issued a public statement condemning his actions and expressing their sorrow for the victims.
In a Facebook post signed by Faraj Al-Shamie on behalf of the Al-Shamie family, relatives of attacker Jihad Al-Shamie said they were “profoundly shocked” by what had happened.
The statement read: “The news from Manchester regarding the terrorist attack targeting a Jewish synagogue has been a profound shock to us.
"The Al-Shamie family in the UK and abroad strongly condemns this heinous act, which targeted peaceful, innocent civilians.
"We fully distance ourselves from this attack and express our deep shock and sorrow over what has happened. Our hearts and thoughts are with the victims and their families, and we pray for their strength and comfort.
"We kindly request that all media outlets respect the family’s privacy during this very difficult time and refrain from using this tragic event in any context that does not reflect the truth.
May God have mercy on the innocent victims, and we pray for the swift recovery of the injured.”
The family stressed that they “fully distance” themselves from the violence and asked that the media respect their privacy as they come to terms with the events.
The attack on the Manchester synagogue has left the city in shock, with community leaders and faith groups calling for unity and calm in the aftermath.