Countdown star Rachel Riley has penned a statement about “rampant antisemitism” following the horrific Manchester synagogue terror attack on Thursday.
The presenter, 39, took to social media last night to share the emotional post following the attack, which occurred on Yom Kippur, an important day in the Jewish calendar.
Five were injured and two people were killed in the incident, which took place at Heaton Park synagogue.
The suspect was later shot dead by officers, with Greater Manchester Police declaring the attack a major incident before it was later deemed terror-related.
Rachel Riley shared photos of when she met former hostage Eli Sharabi at Heaton Park synagogue
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In a post on X, Ms Riley wrote: “This June I had the privilege of interviewing former hostage Eli Sharabi in front of 800 packed into Heaton Park Synagogue.
“Jewish events aren’t advertised. We have security at shuls, schools, charities, everywhere. CST put their lives at risk to keep us safe. Britain 2025.”
The post included photos of the event, featuring one of Ms Riley sharing a hug with Mr Sharabi.
In a second statement, she added: “As well as sending thoughts and prayers to those affected, we need to address the issue at large – rampant antisemitism running riot in our country, often excused or ignored.
This June I had the privilege of interviewing former hostage Eli Sharabi in front of 800 packed into Heaton Park Synagogue.
Jewish events aren’t advertised. We have security at shuls, schools, charities, everywhere.
CST put their lives at risk to keep us safe.
Britain 2025. pic.twitter.com/4xYJLEBUS2
— Rachel Riley MBE 💙 (@RachelRileyRR) October 2, 2025
“Each event I do, worried grandparents tell me the fears for their families’ futures in UK. Enough.”
Ms Riley also shared a post on her Instagram from Scotland Against Antisemitism, which read: “What happened in Manchester today, on the holiest day of the year, was an entirely predictable result of two years of blood libel, discrimination and social ghettoisation.
“The UK’s Jews have been sounding the alarm for two years. We have warned our governments of the consequences of unchecked antisemetic radicalisation.
“Our voices have been ignored, mocked and belittled. Do not tell us you are shocked. Do not tell us you are horrified.
We told you.”
Her post comes amid a flurry of outrage following yesterday’s events, with many in the Jewish community expressing their growing fears.
Police have confirmed that three other victims injured in the attack are currently in a “serious” condition.
King Charles issued a statement following the incident.
“My wife and I have been deeply shocked and saddened to learn of the horrific attack in Manchester, especially on such a significant day for the Jewish community,” the monarch began.
The statement continued: “Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this appalling incident and we greatly appreciate the swift actions of the emergency services.”
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has vowed to protect the Jewish community following the attack.
In a recorded message, he addressed stated: “I know how much fear you will be holding inside of you. I really do… Nobody should have to do that. Nobody.
“And so I promise you that I will do everything in my power to guarantee you the security that you deserve, starting with a more visible police presence, protecting your community.
Rachel Riley also shared a post from Scotland Against Antisemitism
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“I promise you that over the coming days, you will see the other Britain, the Britain of compassion, of decency, of love.”
He went on to add that hatred against Jewish people is “rising once again,” concluding: “Britain must defeat it once again”.
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As well as Ms Riley, several other famous faces have also taken to social media to express their upset and outrage about Thursday’s attack.
Among these is TV personality Stacey Solomon and presenter Rob Rinder.