Iranian Men Charged in Alleged UK Terror Plot Targeting Jewish Sites

Two Iranian men who arrived in the UK on small boats have been charged with engaging in conduct in preparation for terrorist acts, with a court hearing that they identified Manchester's Jewish Museum and Heaton Park Synagogue as targets for an alleged bomb plot.

Salam Ahmadyan, 36, and Rahman Salehi, 34, were arrested in Manchester on September 20 and subsequently charged. Counter Terrorism Policing confirmed the charges, stating the men are accused of acquiring components and instructions to make a chlorine bomb, and using the internet to research potential targets.

Prosecutors told Westminster Magistrates' Court that the two men were allegedly in contact with an overseas third party, potentially in Iran, who may have directed and coordinated the planned attack. The court heard that they acquired images, plans, and maps of potential targets, and conducted reconnaissance of these locations.

The alleged targets included the Jewish Museum and Heaton Park Synagogue. The latter was the site of a terror attack on Yom Kippur the previous year, which resulted in the deaths of two worshippers.

Salehi, who arrived in the UK in 2020 via a small boat and was granted asylum in 2023, and Ahmadyan, who arrived in 2023 and has an outstanding asylum claim, were remanded into custody. They are next due to appear at the Old Bailey for a hearing on October 23.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood commented on the arrests, stating they are a "stark reminder of the threats posed against this country." She added that the charges are "deeply distressing" for Jewish communities, particularly in Manchester, given the anniversary of the previous attack at Heaton Park Synagogue. Mahmood also highlighted that the suspects' arrival via small boat underscores the importance of efforts to tackle illegal migration.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans of Counter Terrorism Policing assured the public that there is no ongoing threat related to these arrests. She acknowledged the concern generated by the news, especially during the High Holy Day period and coinciding with the anniversary of the synagogue attack, noting an increase in antisemitic incidents across the UK.

Greater Manchester Police's deputy chief constable Terry Woods stated that local police are working closely with community leaders, the Community Security Trust, and Counter Terrorism Policing to maintain robust policing plans and visibility within Jewish communities.

The arrests occurred nearly a year after an incident at Heaton Park Synagogue on October 2 of the previous year. During Yom Kippur, an attacker claiming allegiance to the Islamic State attempted to enter the synagogue, stabbing one worshipper. A police marksman, in firing at the terrorist, inadvertently struck and killed another worshipper who was helping to barricade the doors, while a third individual was injured.