The Manchester synagogue attack inquest has taken a dramatic turn as ministers seek to block MI5 files from being disclosed, citing serious risks to national security. This legal battle raises critical questions about transparency, state accountability, and the safety of Jewish communities in the UK.
On 2 October 2025, during Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, a terrorist attack at the Heaton Park Hebrew synagogue in Manchester resulted in the tragic deaths of Melvin Cravitz, 66, and Adrian Daulby, 53. The attacker, Jihad al-Shamie, was shot dead by police after killing Cravitz with multiple knife wounds and Daulby with a single police gunshot as he bravely held the synagogue doors shut against the terrorist.
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The full inquest, which is set to examine the deaths, will focus on al-Shamie's background, what the state knew about him before the attack, security at the synagogue, and the response to the attack. However, the home secretary, Shabana Mahmood, has instructed lawyers to argue that disclosing MI5 intelligence material would pose a serious risk to national security, potentially preventing key evidence from being heard.
Legal Challenge: National Security vs. Public Interest
At a pre-inquest review on Thursday, barristers representing the families of Cravitz and Daulby expressed concerns that the emergence of MI5 material may contradict statements made by the home secretary. In a Commons address on 13 October, Mahmood claimed that al-Shamie was “never referred to the Prevent programme, nor was he known to counter-terrorism policing or the security services.” The families' legal teams argue that the MI5 files could prove otherwise, making their disclosure essential for a full and fair inquest.
Anna Morris KC, representing Daulby's family, highlighted the potential discrepancy, stating that the families have a right to know the truth about what the state knew and did prior to the attack. The coroner must now weigh the competing interests of national security and the public's right to transparency in a case that has profound implications for community safety and trust.
Key Issues in the Inquest
The inquest will address several critical questions:
- What was the extent of MI5's knowledge about al-Shamie before the attack?
- Were there failures in intelligence sharing or risk assessment that could have prevented the tragedy?
- How secure was the synagogue, and were adequate measures in place given the heightened threat level to Jewish communities?
- What was the role of the state in assessing risks to the Jewish community in Greater Manchester?
Comparison: MI5 Disclosure in Past Inquests
To understand the significance of this case, it's useful to compare it with previous inquests where MI5 material was central:
| Inquest Case | MI5 Disclosure | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 London Bridge attack | Partially disclosed | Criticism of MI5 for missed opportunities |
| 2005 London bombings | Closed sessions used | Limited public accountability |
| 2025 Manchester synagogue attack | Seeking to block all | Pending decision |
This table illustrates a troubling trend where national security claims often override public scrutiny, leaving families and communities without full answers.
Implications for Community Safety
The outcome of this legal battle will have far-reaching consequences. If MI5 files are blocked, it could set a precedent that undermines the ability of inquests to hold state bodies accountable. Jewish community leaders in Manchester have expressed deep concern, noting that the attack has already heightened fears. A transparent inquest is seen as vital for rebuilding trust and ensuring that lessons are learned to prevent future attacks.
The families of the victims deserve nothing less than the truth. As the coroner deliberates on whether to allow the MI5 material, the nation watches closely, aware that the decision will shape how such tragedies are investigated in the future.
FAQ
Why are ministers trying to block MI5 files from the inquest?
Ministers argue that disclosing the MI5 files would pose a serious risk to national security, as they contain sensitive intelligence material that could compromise ongoing operations or sources.
What did the home secretary say about the attacker before the inquest?
Shabana Mahmood stated in the Commons that the attacker, Jihad al-Shamie, was never referred to the Prevent programme and was not known to counter-terrorism policing or the security services.
How can the public follow the inquest proceedings?
Inquests are typically open to the public, but some parts may be held in private if sensitive material is discussed. Media coverage and official court reports will provide updates on key findings.
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