'True friend' of Israel Tommy Robinson invited to country after Manchester attack

An Israeli minister has revealed that far-right campaigner Tommy Robinsonhas received an invitation to visit the nation, branding him a "genuine ally".

Amichai Chikli, Israel's Minister of Diaspora and Combating Antisemitism, announced he will welcome the "British patriot" on the state's behalf later this month. The declaration follows just one day after a terror incident occurred outside a Manchester synagogue.

Mr Chikli stated Israel and the Jewish community "stand firmly with our allies in the United Kingdom" after the "horrific" attack outside the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Crumpsall.

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He posted on X: "Tommy is a courageous leader on the front line against radical Islam. At a time when Jews across Europe face rising antisemitism, it is vital to strengthen bonds with allies who refuse to be silent.

"He has proven himself a true friend of Israel and the Jewish people, unafraid to speak the truth and confront hate.

"Israel will always stand with the Jewish community and our allies worldwide. Together with friends like Tommy Robinson, we will build stronger bridges of solidarity, fight terror, and defend Western civilisation and our shared values."

The vehicle and blade terror incident outside the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue occurred on Yom Kippur, the most sacred day in the Jewish calendar. The suspect, 35 year old Jihad Al-Shamie, was shot dead by armed police at the scene, reports the Express.

Laurence Taylor, head of Counter Terrorism Policing, suggested that he "may have been influenced by extreme Islamist ideology". He said: "Establishing the full circumstances of the attack is likely to take some time."

Taylor also confirmed that six individuals are now in custody, suspected of commission, preparation and instigation of acts of terrorism related to the attack.

Tragically, worshipper Adrian Daulby and security guard Melvin Cravitz both lost their lives in the incident. They have been remembered as caring members of their local communities by those who knew them.

In a tragic turn of events, armed police accidentally shot Mr Daulby, 53, and another bystander while trying to prevent the attacker from entering the place of worship, according to police reports.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct has announced it will conduct an investigation into the incident.