London Remembers 7/7 Bombings on 20th Anniversary
Twenty years after the devastating 7/7 bombings, London paused to remember the 52 lives lost and the hundreds injured in the deadliest attack on the city since World War II. King Charles III, Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and countless Londoners joined together in remembrance, marking the anniversary with ceremonies and moments of silence.
The coordinated suicide bombings, carried out by four British men inspired by al-Qaida, targeted three subway trains and a bus during the morning rush hour on July 7, 2005. The attacks sent shockwaves across the UK and Europe, marking the first suicide bombings on European soil.
At 8:50 a.m., the exact moment the first bomb detonated, Starmer and London Mayor Sadiq Khan laid wreaths at the 7/7 memorial in Hyde Park, a poignant tribute to the victims. Similar ceremonies and moments of silence were observed at subway stations near the explosion sites, allowing commuters and staff to reflect on the tragic events of that day.
Craig Cassidy, a paramedic with the London Ambulance Service since 1999, shared his indelible memories of responding to the Aldgate station bombing. "You cannot prepare for this kind of thing," he said, emphasizing the profound impact the experience had on him. He highlighted the importance of focusing on the immediate needs of victims while acknowledging the unprecedented nature of the situation.
Dan Biddle, who tragically lost both legs in the Edgware Road bombing, spoke of mixed emotions on the anniversary. While expressing gratitude for his survival, he voiced a sense of injustice over the lack of a full public inquiry into the events surrounding the attacks. He also acknowledged the extraordinary bravery of a fellow passenger who provided critical first aid, ultimately saving his life.
King Charles III issued a statement emphasizing the importance of remembering not only the victims but also the countless stories of courage and compassion that emerged from the tragedy. He offered his heartfelt thoughts and prayers to all those whose lives were forever changed by the 7/7 bombings.
Remembering the Fallen, Honoring the Heroes
- Ceremonies held at Hyde Park memorial and St. Paul's Cathedral.
- Moments of silence observed at affected subway stations.
- Emergency service workers and survivors share their experiences.
- King Charles III calls for remembrance of victims and acts of courage.