Israel condemns 'barbaric' attack outside UK synagogue

"Israel grieves with the Jewish community in the UK after the barbaric terror attack in Manchester," Netanyahu said in a statement.

"As I warned at the UN: weakness in the face of terrorism only brings more terrorism. Only strength and unity can defeat it," he said.

Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said the attack was a result of rising antisemitism across Britain.

"I am appalled by the murderous attack near the Heaton Park Synagogue in Manchester on the morning of the holiest day for the Jewish people: Yom Kippur," Saar said on X.

"The truth must be told: blatant and rampant antisemitic and anti-Israeli incitement, as well as calls of support for terror, have recently become a widespread phenomenon in the streets of London, in cities across Britain, and on its campuses."

"The authorities in Britain have failed to take the necessary action to curb this toxic wave of antisemitism and have effectively allowed it to persist," he added, saying Israel expected "more than words from the (Keir) Starmer government" in addressing the issue.

Far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir said the attack was a "brutal reminder" to Britain.

"Britain, which in recent years has repeatedly chosen to embrace terrorists, protect them and support them, received today a brutal reminder that those who empower terror will ultimately be struck by it within their own country," he said on Telegram.

Two people were killed on Thursday and four wounded outside a Manchester synagogue packed with worshippers on the Jewish holiday, UK police said, adding the suspect had been shot dead and describing the incident as a "terrorist attack".

Two other people were arrested after the car and stabbing attack, which occurred as Jewish communities around the world mark the Yom Kippur holiday, the holiest in the Jewish calendar.

Britain drew the ire of Israeli leaders after it recognised a Palestinian state last month alongside several other Western countries.