Two Iranian nationals charged with terror plot targeting Manchester Jewish community

Two Iranian nationals have been formally charged with terrorism offences following a major counter-terrorism operation targeting an alleged plot against the Jewish community in Manchester. Counter Terrorism Policing confirmed the arrests and subsequent charges, which relate to alleged preparations made on or before 20 September 2026.

Salam Ahmadyan and Rahman Salehi are accused of engaging in conduct in preparation for terrorist acts, contrary to Section 5 of the Terrorism Act 2006. Law enforcement officials allege the pair maintained contact with an overseas third party who may be in Iran.

Arrests, Raids, and Legal Proceedings

The suspects were initially arrested by counter-terrorism officers in Manchester on Sunday, 20 September 2026. Following their apprehension in the Northern Quarter area—specifically around Newton Street—the men were transported to a London police station for questioning. Investigators subsequently secured warrants of further detention to extend their custody timeframe.

Defendant	Age	Location	Arrival Method & Timeline	Legal Status
Salam Ahmadyan	36	Liverpool	Small boat (arrived 2020 or 2023)	Remanded in custody
Rahman Salehi	34	Salford	Small boat (arrived 2020 or 2023)	Remanded in custody

Following authorization from the Crown Prosecution Service, both men were officially charged. Frank Ferguson, Chief Crown Prosecutor for the CPS's Special Crime and Counter Terrorism Division, stated that prosecutors determined sufficient evidence existed to bring the case to court.

As part of the expansive security operation, police executed residential searches at properties on Epworth Street in Liverpool and Lancaster Road in Salford. Those searches have since been completed.

Bomb-Making Allegations and Target Reconnaissance

Court documents and police details reveal specific allegations regarding the nature of the disrupted plot. Prosecutors state the defendants attempted to acquire components for a homemade bomb, including sourcing a manual detailing how to construct an explosive device out of chlorine and car brake fluid.

Investigators allege the men used encrypted applications to communicate with others, sought out instructional video material on manufacturing improvised explosive devices, and gathered necessary liquids and equipment. Furthermore, the charges assert that the suspects utilized the internet to research targets, acquired maps and architectural plans, and conducted physical reconnaissance of potential locations.

Community Impact and Context of the High Holy Days

The timing of the alleged plot has intensified anxiety within the British Jewish community. The arrests occurred ahead of Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, and coincided with the calendar anniversary of the terrorist attack at the Heaton Park synagogue.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans, Senior National Coordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing, acknowledged the severe distress caused by the allegations.

"These are extremely serious charges and allegations, and have come about from a joint CTP investigation, working closely with our partners in the security services. This investigation has led to the disruption of what we believe to have been a plot targeting the Jewish community in Manchester."

Vicki Evans, Senior National Coordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing, via Metropolitan Police

Evans added that authorities do not believe there is any ongoing threat to the public, though vigilance remains strongly encouraged.

Greater Manchester Police Deputy Chief Constable Terry Woods emphasized that local policing teams are maintaining robust, visible patrols in coordination with community leaders and the Community Security Trust.

Political Repercussions and Border Security Debates

The case has triggered broader political debate surrounding border security and foreign state threats. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood highlighted that both suspects arrived in the UK via small boat several years ago, with understanding indicating arrivals occurred across separate years, with differing ongoing asylum statuses.

"The fact both suspects arrived by small boat several years ago is a reminder of the importance of our relentless work to tackle illegal migration into this country. While numbers are down, I know there is more we must do."

Shabana Mahmood, Home Secretary, via BBC News

Mahmood further noted that the nation continues to face serious hostile activities orchestrated by the Iranian regime, noting parallels in concern with other recent security incidents investigated by intelligence agencies.

Next Steps

Both defendants have been remanded in custody and are scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Saturday, 3 October 2026, where formal legal proceedings will advance.