King Charles has demonstrated his personal support for the UK's Jewish community during a visit this morning to two victims of last month's terror attacks. The monarch visited Jewish Care in Golders Green, North London, under a strict security blackout that was lifted only after his departure.
The King spoke with first responders who helped apprehend the suspect following the stabbings of two Orthodox Jewish men on the street. Essa Suleiman, 45, has appeared in court charged with the attempted murder of three people, including a man in an unrelated attack.
Charles also met community representatives, local charities, residents, and first responders to reaffirm his steadfast support for the Jewish community after a series of antisemitic attacks. The King was greeted with huge cheers during his unannounced visit, spending about an hour greeting members of the local community and charity representatives in the predominantly Jewish area of northwest London.
Among those he met were Michael Shine, 76, who was stabbed at a bus stop during the terror attack on April 29, and Shloime Rand, 34, who was stabbed as he left a synagogue. Both men suffered serious injuries; Mr. Rand later described his survival as a very big miracle. The King also met Yonathan Elkouby and Yitzi Lipsyc, volunteers with the Jewish police force Shomrim, who were involved in the response, and representatives from Hatzola, the Jewish ambulance service that was targeted in an antisemitic attack on March 23 when four ambulances were set on fire.
Sir Mark Rowley, the Metropolitan Police commissioner, and Sir Ephraim Mirvis, the chief rabbi, were among those greeting the monarch on arrival at Jewish Care. 'I'm glad I came to visit,' the King said. 'Huge admiration.' Chatting with Mr. Shine and his sister, Doreen Friedman, the King expressed support for the Jewish community and asked about Mr. Shine's injuries and recovery. Mr. Shine noted the genuine warmth in the conversation, telling the King that his visit was hugely welcomed as it says so much.
More to follow.
