Two Iranian men have been charged with preparing terrorist acts targeting Manchester’s Jewish community, including plans to attack a synagogue previously struck by a fatal terrorist attack.
Rahman Salehi, 34, from Salford, and Salam Ahmadyan, 36, from Liverpool appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Saturday, accused of conducting hostile reconnaissance and identifying potential targets within the city’s Jewish community.
Court Hearing Details
The defendants appeared in court wearing grey overalls, confirming their identities through a Kurdish interpreter. District Judge Nina Tempia remanded them into custody pending further proceedings at the Old Bailey scheduled for 23 October.
Prosecutor Mark Luckett outlined serious allegations against the pair, stating they were observed carrying out hostile reconnaissance within Manchester’s Jewish community. Potential targets allegedly included the Manchester Jewish Museum and Heaton Park Synagogue.
Alleged International Connection
The prosecution claims both men were in contact with a third party believed to be operating from within Iran, who allegedly directed and coordinated the planned attack. This individual reportedly provided detailed instructions on assembling homemade explosive devices.
According to court evidence, the defendants acquired instructional materials titled “Steps for Making [a] Powder Chlorine and Car Brake Oil/Fluid Bomb” along with video content on manufacturing improvised explosive devices. They are also accused of researching potential targets online, gathering images, plans, and maps of locations for attack.
Background and Arrest Circumstances
The arrests occurred on 20 September 2026, just before Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. Salehi arrived in the UK in 2020 via small boat and was granted leave to remain in 2023, while Ahmadyan entered in 2023 and has an outstanding asylum claim.
Before coming to the UK, Salehi resided in Germany for five years. Authorities allege the pair acquired various liquids, components, and equipment necessary for manufacturing explosive devices during their time in Britain.
Security Implications
The case raises significant concerns about border security and the potential for international terrorist networks to operate within the UK. The timing of the alleged plot, coinciding with a major religious observance, underscores the perceived threat level.
Manchester’s Jewish community has previously experienced targeted violence, making these allegations particularly disturbing. The identification of Heaton Park Synagogue as a potential target adds historical weight to the charges, given the location’s significance.
Why it Matters
This alleged plot represents a stark reminder of the ongoing threat of international terrorism and the importance of robust counter-terrorism measures. The charges highlight potential vulnerabilities in monitoring individuals with extremist connections who may be operating under false pretences or pending asylum claims. For communities across the UK, particularly religious minorities, the case underscores the critical balance between maintaining open borders for legitimate refugees while protecting national security. The outcome of these proceedings will likely influence future policy decisions regarding border control, asylum processing, and community protection measures.
