May condemns ‘sickening and cowardly’ shooting at US synagogue

Theresa May has joined international condemnation after a gunman opened fire in a synagogue in Pittsburgh, killing at least 10 people.

At least six other people – four of them police officers – were wounded in the attack during a baby-naming ceremony at the Tree of Life Congregation.

Mrs May said in a statement: “I’m deeply shocked by the reports of a shooting at a synagogue in the US today.

“Our thoughts are with the Jewish community in Pittsburgh and all those affected by this sickening and cowardly act.”

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said: “My thoughts are with those killed or injured in this horrific act of antisemitic violence, and with their loved ones.

“We must stand together against hate and terror.”

London mayor Sadiq Khan expressed his condolences to the victims while seeking to reassure the capital’s Jewish community.

“Synagogues and all places of worship should be sanctuaries,” he said.

“London stands with the congregation of the Tree of Life in Pittsburgh – you are in our thoughts and prayers.

“I want to reassure the Jewish community in London that City Hall has been in touch with the Met and we will do everything possible to support and protect you.”

Board of Deputies of British Jews president Marie van der Zyl condemned the killing of innocent worshippers “gunned down in cold blood”.

“It is particularly chilling to hear reports that the shooter said ‘All these Jews need to die’,” she said.

“The UK Jewish community stands in solidarity with everyone affected in the US.”