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Two individuals losing their lives in an assault on a Jewish house of worship in Manchester have been identified by law enforcement as 53-year-old Adrian Daulby, and Melvin Cravitz, aged 66.

Three others are still hospitalized with severe trauma after the attacker rammed a car into people before using a bladed weapon on Thursday.

The attack, which authorities have declared was a terrorist incident, took place during Judaism's holiest day, the most sacred occasion in the Jewish tradition.

The perpetrator, who was shot dead at the scene, was a thirty-five-year-old UK national of Syrian heritage who was not previously known to counter-terrorism authorities, as stated by security officials.

Public Reaction

"Right now our hearts are shattered," the nation's top rabbinical authority commented.

Speaking to a national radio program, he said: "The tragic incident was a terrible shock to us, something which actually we were fearing might happen because of the build up."

The attack was not only "a very dark time" for Jewish citizens nationwide "but for everyone in our country," he added.

Official Reaction

"Our responsibility is to guarantee our Jewish community, our citizens can conduct their daily activities with security and assurance," a senior government official stated.

"I do not want Jewish citizens in our country to believe they must live a reduced Jewish identity, that they cannot go about their business and observe their religion and attend their religious centers in freedom," she continued.

The assailant was not identified to counter-terrorism police, she informed media outlets, and it was "not yet possible" to say if there was a terror network behind the attack.

Ongoing Probe

The police investigation was "continuing at pace" and there was an additional law enforcement visibility at religious institutions across the UK.

"Funding is available for safety resources," the official commented, adding: "It will be necessary to examine what more we can do to combat rising antisemitism."

Law enforcement officials said they were providing help to loved ones of the two men killed.

"Our heartfelt condolences are with Mr Daulby and Mr Cravitz's loved ones at this incredibly difficult period," the lead investigator stated.

He indicated that trained family liaison officers were in contact with them and would maintain assistance through the coronial process.

"Although procedures exist which require adherence, we pledge to remain sensitive of cultural preferences and sensitivities and to making certain that the deceased and their families' preferences are honored," he said, stating that the deceased individuals were from the Manchester community.

Medical examinations are being conducted on Friday, as confirmed by official sources.