LONDON — A recent attack in Manchester has raised serious concerns about the safety of Jewish communities in Britain. On Yom Kippur, the holiest day in Judaism, a terrorist drove a car into worshippers outside a synagogue and subsequently launched a stabbing spree. The assailant was shot by police, resulting in two deaths and four injuries, some caused by accidental police fire. In a show of resilience, the congregation continued their prayers while British Special Air Service (SAS) forces patrolled the area.

This incident has prompted many in the Jewish community to question whether Britain remains a secure place for them. The attack marks a troubling moment in the country’s history, as it is only the second recorded antisemitic murder in Britain since Jews were readmitted in the 1650s. The perpetrator, Jihad al-Shamie, was born in Syria and brought to the UK as a child. He became a British citizen in the mid-2000s and was later arrested for rape earlier this year.

The attack has sparked discussions about the effectiveness of Britain’s multicultural policies. Critics argue that the belief in the strength of diversity has been challenged by the reality of violent extremism. While many immigrants integrate successfully, there are those who do not, leading to significant societal issues. Al-Shamie’s actions have raised questions about how a society can tolerate and even subsidize individuals who commit such acts of violence.

The incident has drawn parallels to previous attacks, including the 2017 bombing at a Manchester concert that killed 22 people. In both cases, there is a sense that the country has struggled to confront the underlying issues of extremism and violence. The response to these events often includes demands for accountability from authorities, with many questioning whether warning signs were overlooked.

The situation has also highlighted the challenges faced by immigrants who have embraced British values. Many now feel that the country is failing to protect its citizens, leading to a growing sense of resentment among the native population and cynicism among immigrants. This dynamic threatens to undermine the progress made in uniting diverse communities under a single national identity.

The father of the attacker, Faraj al-Shamie, a trauma surgeon, publicly condemned his son’s actions. Initially seen as a model immigrant, his social media posts revealed troubling views, including calls for the destruction of Israel and praise for extremist groups. This case illustrates the complexities of integration and the potential for radicalization within families.

As Britain grapples with these issues, the need for a comprehensive approach to address the root causes of extremism and ensure the safety of all communities has never been more urgent. The Manchester attack serves as a stark reminder of the challenges that lie ahead in fostering a truly inclusive society.