Two Iranian nationals have been charged with terrorism offences in connection with an alleged scheme to attack the Jewish community in the Manchester area around the time of Yom Kippur. Rahman Salehi, aged 34, of Salford, and Salam Ahmadyan, aged 36, from Liverpool, face accusations of preparing to carry out an act of terrorism or assisting others in committing such an act on or before 20 September. According to the Metropolitan Police, the men were charged on 2 October with engaging in conduct in preparation for terrorist acts, contrary to Section 5 of the Terrorism Act 2006.
The two men were apprehended in Manchester's Northern Quarter district on the eve of Yom Kippur, when thousands of British Jews were observing services in synagogues across the country. Both men arrived in the UK by small boat; according to reporting from a national broadcaster, one was granted asylum and the other had a live asylum claim at the time of their arrest.
What were they accused of preparing?
According to Counter Terrorism Police, the men are accused of obtaining instructions to make a chlorine bomb, acquiring liquids, components and equipment for such a device, researching potential targets and conducting reconnaissance of potential locations for attack. Police alleged the men used encrypted applications to seek bomb components, obtained a document about making a "Powder Chlorine and Car Brake Oil/Fluid Bomb", and acquired video instructions for making or assembling an improvised explosive device. As part of the investigation, searches were carried out at addresses in Epworth Street, Liverpool, and Lancaster Road, Salford. Counter Terrorism Police also allege the two men were in contact with a third party overseas, who may be in Iran, in relation to the plot.
What is the significance of the timing?
Yom Kippur, known as the Day of Atonement, is the holiest day in the Jewish calendar and is typically observed with prayer and fasting. The date in question fell on 23 September in 2024, making the alleged plot's timing particularly sensitive given the religious observance period. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said the news that two Iranian men had been charged would be "deeply distressing" to Manchester's Jewish community, as the city marks one year since the Heaton Park Synagogue attack.
What happens next?
Both men appeared before Westminster Magistrates' Court, where they were remanded in custody. They are scheduled to appear at the Old Bailey in London on 23 October for their next hearing. At this stage, questions of bail, legal representation, and the progression of the case through the courts will be determined. The charges they face carry serious penalties under terrorism legislation in the United Kingdom.
According to international reporting, police said they believe the investigation disrupted the alleged plot and that they do not believe there is an ongoing public threat related to it. Police confirmed there was no connection between this case and a separate suspected plot involving a US-linked military base.
