Leeds Council Responds to Michigan Synagogue Attack

Reassurance offered to Leeds’ Jewish community following overseas incident

Leeds City Council has issued a statement to reassure the local Jewish community after an attack on a synagogue in Michigan on 12 March 2026. The council leaders emphasised their commitment to community safety and condemned hatred and violence in all forms.

Council Statement and Police Measures

Councillor James Lewis, Leader of Leeds City Council, and Councillor Asghar Khan, Executive Member for Communities, Customer Service and Community Safety, jointly addressed concerns arising from the attack. They acknowledged the distress such events cause to Jewish communities in Leeds and outlined the response measures in place.

According to the statement:

• Senior police officers have increased patrols at key locations, including synagogues and Jewish schools across Leeds.
• Police presence aims to provide visible reassurance and facilitate engagement with council colleagues and community partners.
• Police are encouraging the reporting of any suspicious or concerning activity to enhance community intelligence.
• Reports are logged and reviewed daily by the on-duty Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) Inspector.

Commitment to Community Safety

The council reaffirmed its stance against hatred and violence, stating a continued commitment to working with partners to ensure that all communities in Leeds feel safe, supported, and protected.

Reporting Hate Crimes

Residents are advised to report any hate crime or incidents. General advice and reporting mechanisms are available on the Leeds City Council website: Report a hate crime or incident.