Victims of London bombings remembered on 20th anniversary of attacks

On July 7, 2005, four suicide bombers struck London’s transport network, killing 52 people and injuring more than 770 others.

Three of the blasts happened on London Underground trains, on or around 8.50am, in the vicinity of Aldgate, Edgware Road and Russell Square stations. The fourth device exploded an hour later on a bus that had been diverted via Tavistock Square.

Metropolitan Police Service Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley said: “Today we remember all those who lost their lives in the horrendous events that occurred on July 7, 2005. Our thoughts are also with the loved ones they left behind and those still impacted by these events, including survivors, and serving and retired first responders who gave their best in the most difficult circumstances.

“While these attacks showed the worst of humanity, the response – both in the resilience of Londoners and the bravery of first responders – reflects the very best of us. This attack led to police counter terrorism transforming with more resource, a national network and even closer working with security services.

“This courage and commitment to protect the public continues to this day with officers at the Met and across the country working tirelessly to stop those who would seek to do us harm.”

Paula Dodds, chair of the Metropolitan Police Federation, said: “The courage and compassion shown by Metropolitan Police officers following the terrorist attacks on London on July 7, 2005, will never be forgotten.

“Officers both on duty and off duty bravely ran towards the scenes of unimaginable atrocity – doing their best to save and preserve life.

“That day, we saw the absolute best of British policing.

“Officers tended to the victims of this appalling attack on our city and as the hours wore on, helped to reassure frightened and worried members of the public as the reality of what had happened in our capital sunk in.

“The bravery and heroism of my colleagues on that day made me proud to be a Metropolitan Police officer.

“They are the best of us.

“Our thoughts remain with all those affected by that devastating day.”

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said: “Today we mark 20 years since the horrendous 7 July terror attacks shook our city. We remember the 52 people whose lives were cruelly stolen on that dark day, and our thoughts and prayers remain with all of their loved ones, as well as the more than 700 people who were injured by these cowardly acts of hatred.

“We also pay tribute to those who ran towards danger on that terrible day. From emergency service personnel to transport workers and members of the public, who showed incredible courage and compassion by putting their own safety at risk to help those in need, their bravery and selflessness will never be forgotten.

“Two decades on – as we unite for a day of commemoration – I have a clear message for those who seek to spread division and sow hatred: you will never win. London’s determination to stand together is stronger than ever. We will always choose hope over fear, and unity over division, as we continue building a safer London for everyone.”

Posting on ‘X’, the Home Office said: “As we reflect two decades on, our thoughts remain with the victims, bereaved families, and brave emergency services who responded.”

Ahead of the anniversary, the Prime Minister Keir Starmer 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.

“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 added: “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.”