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Israel invites 'true friend' Tommy Robinson to country after Manchester attack
An Israeli minister says far-right activist Tommy Robinson has been invited to the country, describing him as a "true friend". Amichai Chikli, Israel's Minister of Diaspora and Combating Antisemitism, said he will host the "British patriot" on behalf of the state of Israel later this month.
The announcement comes a day after a terror attack outside a synagogue in Manchester. Mr Chikli said Israel and the Jewish people "stand firmly with our allies in the United Kingdom" following the "horrific" attack outside the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Crumpsall. He said 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 civilization and our shared values."
Mr Robinson, real name Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, said on X: "I have accepted an invitation by the Government of Israel to cover the cost of my flight and hotel stay for a few days. To be clear, I am not receiving money or any compensation, this visit is about solidarity, truth, and courage."
He said during the trip he will meet leaders of the Israeli government and visit areas attacked by Hamas on October 7 2023. He said he also plans to visit religious sites.
The car and knife terror attack outside the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue happened on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar.
Suspect Jihad Al-Shamie, 35, was shot dead by armed police at the scene, with Laurence Taylor, head of Counter Terrorism Policing, saying it is believed he "may have been influenced by extreme Islamist ideology".
"Establishing the full circumstances of the attack is likely to take some time," he said.
He also confirmed six people are now in custody held on suspicion of commission, preparation and instigation of acts of terrorism in relation to the attack.
Worshipper Adrian Daulby and security guard Melvin Cravitz both died in the incident on Thursday and have been described as caring members of their local communities by their friends and neighbours.
Armed police accidentally shot Mr Daulby, 53, and another member of the public while attempting to stop the attacker from getting into the place of worship, police said.
Police watchdog, the Independent Office for Police Conduct, said it will carry out an investigation.
