Thousands of people joined prayer services for Israel tonight shortly after Iran launched drone and missile attacks against Israel.

The services – at 11pm and midnight UK time –  were led by Rabbi Piny Hackenbroch, chair of the Rabbinic Council of the United Synagogue, and Rabbi Nicky Liss, dirdector of the United Synagogue’s Centre of Rabbinic Excellence, who said prayers both for Israel and the its defence forces.

Jo Grose, CEO of the United Synagogue spoke, saying: “We’re inspired to see that so many of us are here together to pray for our brothers and sisters in Israel.”

Before the singing of the Hatikvah, Israel’s national anthem, United Synagogue president Michael Goldstein president closed proceedings, saying: “When Israel is under such distress, we appreciate the power of prayer and unity.

"All we want is peace and pray for everyone in the state of Israel and that they should know and we should know of nothing but peace.”

The Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis posted on X/Twitter: "Our prayers are with Israel as she is under attack yet again.

“May Hashem protect the people of Israel from danger and deliver them from the bitterness of conflict to peace and security.

Am Yisrael Chai!”