King Charles has urged unity against those who divide, marking 20 years since 7/7 attacks that killed 52 and injured hundreds.
King Charles has called on the nation to remain united “against those who would seek to divide us,” as the UK marks the 20th anniversary of the devastating 7/7 London bombings that claimed 52 lives and left more than 700 injured.
In a solemn message released on Monday, the King condemned the “senseless acts of evil” that saw four coordinated suicide attacks on the capital’s public transport system during morning rush hour on July 7, 2005. The attacks, carried out by Islamist extremists, remain the worst terrorist incident in the UK since the 1988 Lockerbie bombing.
“While the horrors will never be forgotten, we may take comfort from the way such events rally communities together in solidarity, solace and determination,” the King said. “It is this spirit of unity that has helped London, and our nation, to heal.”
He expressed “special prayers” for the victims and survivors, including those “who still carry the physical and psychological scars,” and praised the courage and compassion shown by first responders and ordinary citizens in the face of the carnage.
A National Service of Commemoration was held at St Paul’s Cathedral, attended by survivors, bereaved families, and representatives of emergency services. The Duke of Edinburgh represented the King at the event, which also featured moments of silence and musical tributes.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer joined in the national remembrance, describing the day as “one that changed our country forever.”
“Those who tried to divide us failed,” Starmer said. “We stood together then, and we stand together now — against hate and for the values that define us: freedom, democracy, and the rule of law.”
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper echoed these sentiments, calling the anniversary “a time for solemn reflection,” and acknowledging the resilience of Londoners in the face of tragedy. “Amid the horror of that day, we saw the best of people. Their courage continues to inspire us,” she said.
Commemorative events are being held throughout the capital, including a wreath-laying at Hyde Park and a candlelight vigil near Tavistock Square, the site of one of the bombings.
King Charles, who has long championed interfaith harmony and community cohesion, said the attacks had underscored the importance of “building a society where people of all faiths and backgrounds can live together with mutual respect and understanding.”
