In the UK, two men are accused of plotting a terrorist attack against a synagogue in Manchester.
Quick Look
- Two men, Rahman Salehi and Salam Ahmadyan, are accused of planning a terrorist attack against a synagogue in Manchester using an improvised explosive device.
- The suspects were detained on September 20 and are in custody.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
Two men are accused of planning an attack on Jewish targets in Manchester using an explosive device.
Two men targeted a synagogue in Manchester, UK, in an alleged attack and, according to the prosecution, were preparing to use an improvised explosive device there. The Guardian reports this with reference to court materials.
Before the alleged attack, Rahman Salehi, 34, and Salam Ahmadian, 36, were allegedly exploring Jewish sites in Manchester, including the Heaton Park Synagogue and the Jewish Museum. The men also searched the Internet for plans and maps of potential targets, conducted on-site reconnaissance and purchased materials to make an explosive device, according to the indictment.
Investigators believe the men were in contact with a third man who was believed to be in Iran and gave them instructions on how to make a homemade bomb. “Both defendants are suspected of preparing terrorist attacks against the Jewish community of Manchester using an improvised explosive device,” said prosecutor Mark Luckett.
Salehi and Ahmadyan were detained on September 20, shortly before Yom Kippur. They were charged with preparing a terrorist act or facilitating its commission, after which the court kept both in custody. The next hearing is scheduled for October 23 at the Old Bailey.
What to Watch
AI outlook — possibilities, not facts
Trial at the Old Bailey
Very likely · Within weeks
Open Questions
- What was the role of the third party who was in Iran?
- Did the accused have accomplices in the UK?
