Two men charged with plotting terrorist attack on Manchester Jewish community

British police have charged two Iranian nationals with preparing terrorist acts targeting the Jewish community in Manchester, England. The suspects, 36-year-old Salam Ahmadian from Liverpool and 34-year-old Rahman Salehi from Salford, were arrested in Manchester on September 20, 2026. Official charges were filed on Friday, October 2, following an investigation by the Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP) unit.

Authorities allege that the two men communicated with a third party abroad, potentially located in Iran, to orchestrate the plot. Evidence suggests the pair used encrypted messaging applications to coordinate the acquisition of components for an improvised explosive device. Furthermore, they are accused of procuring necessary equipment and conducting reconnaissance on potential targets, intending to launch the attack around the time of Yom Kippur. Vicki Evans, national coordinator for CTP, stated that the operation successfully prevented the conspiracy, and there is currently no ongoing threat to the public.

The two defendants are scheduled to appear before a court this Saturday to face these charges. The investigation remains focused on the nature of their international communication and the full extent of the planned operation.