Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Britain would stand together against hate as it did in the aftermath of the 2005 bombings, as he paid tribute to victims and survivors
Keir Starmer has led tributes to the victims and survivors of the 7/7 attacks as the nation marks the 20th anniversary today.
The Prime Minister said Britain would stand together against hate as it did in the aftermath of the 2005 bombings, saying “those who tried to divide us failed”.
Memorials will be held throughout the day alongside victims, survivors, loved ones and first responders to remember the horrific attacks.
On July 7 2005, four suicide bombers struck the capital’s transport network, killing 52 people and injuring more than 770 on three London Underground trains and a bus.
The Prime Minister said: “Today the whole country will unite to remember the lives lost in the 7/7 attacks, and all those whose lives were changed forever.
“We honour the courage shown that day—the bravery of the emergency services, the strength of survivors, and the unity of Londoners in the face of terror.
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“Those who tried to divide us failed. We stood together then, and we stand together now—against hate and for the values that define us of freedom, democracy and the rule of law.”
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said: “Twenty years have passed since 7/7 but the passage of time makes what happened that day no less shocking. It was an appalling attack on our capital city and on democracy itself.
“As we come together to mark this anniversary, my thoughts remain with the victims, survivors and all who loved them. Amid the horror of that day, we saw the best of people, our emergency services, first responders and ordinary Londoners who bravely acted to help one another. Their courage continues to inspire us.
“We will always confront the threats facing this country to keep the public safe and preserve our way of life.”
King Charles asked the country to reaffirm its commitment to building a society of all faiths and backgrounds, standing against those who seek to sow division.
He said: “Today, as we mark 20 years since the tragic events of 7th July 2005, my heartfelt thoughts and special prayers remain with all those whose lives were forever changed on that terrible summer’s day.
“We remember with profound sadness the 52 innocent people who were killed in senseless acts of evil – and the enduring grief of their loved ones.
“We recall, too, the hundreds more who carry physical and psychological scars, and pray that their suffering may ease as the years pass.
“In doing so, we should also remember the countless stories of extraordinary courage and compassion that emerged from the darkness of that day.
“The selfless bravery of our emergency services, transport workers, and fellow citizens who rushed towards danger to help strangers reminds us of the very best of humanity in the face of the very worst.”
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