Two Iranian Nationals Charged with Terror Plot in Manchester
Two Iranian migrants in Britain face charges in connection with an alleged plan to carry out a terror attack targeting Jewish sites in Manchester. The individuals, identified as Rahman Salehi, 34, and Salam Ahmadyan, 36, were charged on Friday for preparing to commit acts of terrorism involving potential bombings of the Jewish Museum and Heaton Park Synagogue using makeshift explosives, as reported in Westminster magistrates’ court.
The Crown Prosecution Service indicated that Salehi and Ahmadyan communicated via encrypted messaging platforms to discuss purchasing materials for homemade bombs. They reportedly obtained instructions for creating a “powder chlorine and car brake oil/fluid bomb” and had access to video guides on assembling explosive devices, according to local media.
In addition to these preparations, it is alleged that they conducted reconnaissance on their intended targets, collecting images and maps, which suggests a degree of planning that raises serious concerns.
The pair was arrested on September 20, coinciding with Yom Kippur, a significant Jewish holiday, and their charges were announced on the anniversary of a violent incident at the Heaton Park synagogue, which resulted in casualties.
According to reports, Salehi and Ahmadyan were in communication with an unknown third party, possibly located in Iran, regarding their plot. Both individuals entered the UK illegally by crossing the English Channel on small boats, with Ahmadyan arriving in 2020 and Salehi in 2023. The Home Office acknowledged that one of them has been granted asylum, while the other currently has an open claim.
Deputy Chief Constable Terry Woods of Greater Manchester Police addressed the situation, emphasizing the concern it brings to local Jewish communities, particularly given the timing of the events. He assured the public that police remain in close collaboration with community leaders and national counter-terrorism agencies, maintaining enhanced security measures in Jewish areas.
Mayor of Greater Manchester, Bev Craig, expressed that the charges following this counter-terrorism investigation would understandably heighten fear within the Jewish community. She praised the police and security services for their efforts and reassured residents that increased patrols would be visible, enhancing community safety.
