Two Iranian Nationals Charged in UK Over Alleged Terrorist Plot Targeting Manchester Jewish Community
UK authorities have charged Rahman Salehi, 34, and Salam Ahmadyan, 36, with preparing or assisting in a planned terrorist attack in Manchester.
In Brief
- •UK authorities have charged Rahman Salehi, 34, and Salam Ahmadyan, 36, with preparing or assisting in a planned terrorist attack in Manchester.
- •Counterterrorism police allege the suspects conducted target reconnaissance, attempted to source components for an explosive device, and maintained contact with an overseas third party potentially in Iran.
- •Both men were arrested on September 20, coinciding with the start of Yom Kippur, and are scheduled to appear in a London court.
- •The UK Home Office confirmed both individuals arrived in Britain via small boat crossings, with one having received asylum and the other holding an active asylum claim.
Why It Matters
The case highlights growing security concerns among British officials regarding state-linked or proxy threats targeting Jewish institutions and dissidents within the UK. The details of the suspects' entry into the country are also likely to re-ignite political debates surrounding border security and the vetting of asylum seekers arriving via small boats.
Key Details
- Suspects Charged
- Rahman Salehi (34) and Salam Ahmadyan (36)
- Arrest Date
- September 20, 2026
- Targeted Location
- Manchester, United Kingdom
- Alleged Method
- Reconnaissance and procurement of explosive device components
- Upcoming Hearing Location
- Westminster Magistrates' Court, London
Context & Background
The charges come amid heightened alert for British security forces following a fatal October 2025 attack at the Heaton Park synagogue in Manchester and ongoing diplomatic friction between London and Tehran over alleged state-backed intelligence operations on UK soil.
What To Watch
Rahman Salehi and Salam Ahmadyan are scheduled to appear at London's Westminster Magistrates' Court on Saturday.
Original Reporting & Sources
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