Two Iranian men are accused of planning a “terrorist act” against the Jewish community in Manchester

Two Iranian men are accused of planning a “terrorist act” against the Jewish community in Manchester

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Two Iranian men who arrived in the UK on a small boat have been charged with terrorism in connection with an alleged plot to target the Jewish community in Manchester.

Rahman Salehi, 35, from Salford, and Salam Ahmadian, 36, from Liverpool, are accused of preparing to commit a terrorist act or assisting another person to commit a terrorist act on or before September 20.

The two men were arrested in Manchester's Northern Quarter on the eve of Yom Kippur, considered the holiest day in the Jewish calendar.

British Home Secretary Shabana Mahmoud said that news of two Iranian men being charged over the alleged plot would be “deeply shocking” to the Jewish community in Manchester, as the city marks the first anniversary of the Heaton Park synagogue attack.

British counter-terrorism police allege that the two men were in contact with a third party abroad, who may be located in Iran, in relation to the plot.

According to the police, the two men are accused of obtaining instructions for making a chlorine bomb, obtaining the necessary liquids, components and equipment for such a device, searching for potential targets and conducting reconnaissance of possible attack sites.

The two defendants arrived in Britain on a small boat in 2020 and 2023. One of them has been granted asylum, and the other has an existing asylum application.

Interior Minister Shabana Mahmood said: “These recent events serve as a stark reminder of the threats facing this country from terrorists and foreign actors alike.”

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"Two suspects have been charged with planning a terrorist attack against Jewish communities in Manchester," she added.

She said: The arrival of the two suspects on a small boat several years ago reminds us of the importance of our tireless work to combat illegal immigration to this country. Even though the numbers are down, I know there is more to do.

“It is inappropriate to comment further on this issue. But I can say that we will continue our relentless efforts to protect our Jewish communities, eradicate anti-Semitism in this country, and maintain the security of our borders.”

It is worth noting that Britain has witnessed a significant rise in anti-Semitism since the Hamas movement’s attack on southern Israel in October 2023 and the subsequent war on Gaza, including a series of attacks on Jewish sites in London earlier this year.

As part of the investigation, searches were carried out at addresses in Epworth Road, Liverpool, and Lancaster Road, Salford.

Greater Manchester Police Deputy Chief Constable Terry Woods said: "We know this is particularly acute on the anniversary of last year's terrorist act at Heaton Park Synagogue, and during the Jewish High Holy Days."

“Our robust and ongoing security plans within Jewish communities will continue, and the public can expect a continued presence of officers providing outreach and security services.”