Iraqi national charged in UK synagogue attack investigation

British counterterrorism police have charged an Iraqi national in connection with the 2025 Yom Kippur terrorist attack at Manchester's Heaton Park Synagogue. Hekmat Omar Ali Hakim, a 49-year-old Iraqi national residing in the Manchester area, was arrested on Thursday on suspicion of failing to disclose information related to the attack.

The charge marks a significant development in the extensive investigation launched after the assault. Hakim is accused of an offense under the UK Terrorism Act and was due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court in London. Authorities have not yet disclosed the specific information he allegedly possessed, when he became aware of it, or his connection to the terrorist.

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a significant development in the investigation.

Hakim had previously been arrested on May 26 as part of the investigation, questioned, and released on bail. Following nearly three additional months of investigation and with prosecutor approval, authorities decided to charge him. He is the eighth person arrested in connection with the attack.

Assistant Chief Constable Rob Potts, the operational head of Counter Terrorism Policing North West, called the charge a significant development. He stated that investigators are continuing their efforts to "establish the full picture" behind the attack and identify all involved parties. The charge is the result of a lengthy and meticulous investigation assisted by British prosecutors.

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establish the full picture