“As Jewish communities across the world were preparing for the festival of Shavuot, we received the devastating news that a march in Colorado to highlight the plight of those held hostage in Gaza was attacked by a terrorist shouting “Free Palestine” and throwing Molotov cocktails. Twelve people were injured leaving many in a serious condition. This mirrors the recent incident in Washington when two innocent people were murdered in cold blood, also by a terrorist shouting “Free Palestine.” Over the weekend, we also received the news that several Jewish buildings across France were targeted in coordinated antisemitic attacks.

We have consistently warned how the current conflict is being used as a cover to attack Jews on our streets. This is a direct result of hate speech being espoused which in turn leads to appalling acts of terrorism striking at the heart of our liberal democracies. In Greater Manchester and the surrounding regions, our communal buildings have been defaced and we continue to deal with record leves of antisemitic hate crime across all section of society. It is therefore imperative that politicians and the media only comment on incidents when they have been verified to avoid unintentionally inflaming tensions.

We thank those who are tasked with keeping us safe and call on people to ensure there is no room for incitement by spreading a message of tolerance so our communities can continue to live alongside each other in harmony.”