Two Iranian men identified Manchester synagogue as site for alleged bomb plot, court hears

Two Iranian men, Rahman Salehi and Salam Ahmadyan, have been charged with preparing acts of terrorism targeting Manchester's Jewish community. They allegedly identified Heaton Park synagogue, a site previously targeted in a fatal attack, and the Jewish Museum as potential targets for a homemade bomb plot. The court heard that the men, who arrived in the UK illegally, were in contact with a third party in Iran who directed and coordinated the planned attack, providing instructions for an explosive device. They are accused of conducting reconnaissance, acquiring bomb-making materials and instructions, and researching potential targets online. The men were arrested on September 20, 2026, and have been remanded in custody.

Two Iranian nationals, Rahman Salehi, 34, and Salam Ahmadyan, 36, have been charged by British authorities with preparing to commit an act of terrorism in Manchester. The alleged plot was aimed at the Jewish community and was intended to occur on or before Yom Kippur, the Jewish Day of Atonement. Police stated that the men were allegedly in contact with an overseas third party, potentially in Iran, and attempted to acquire components for an improvised explosive device while conducting reconnaissance on potential targets. Both men arrived in the UK from Europe several years ago, with one having been granted asylum and the other having a live asylum claim. They are scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court.

British prosecutors have charged Joshua Kerry, 28, with preparing acts of terrorism, including targeting Nigel Farage MP. Kerry is already in custody for the alleged murder of former politician Ann Widdecombe, whom he is accused of beating to death with a hammer in July. The terrorism charges relate to conduct between May 31 and July 8. U.K. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood expressed concern over the charges, emphasizing that attacks on politicians threaten democracy. Separately, two Iranian men, Salam Ahmadyan and Rahman Salehi, have been charged with preparing terrorist acts targeting the Jewish community in Manchester, allegedly in contact with an overseas third party in Iran.

Northern Ireland police have arrested a 66-year-old man in connection with a car bomb attack on a Belfast police station claimed by the New IRA. The incident occurred on Saturday when a hijacked delivery vehicle was used to target the Dunmurry police station. No one was injured in the blast. The New IRA stated its intention was to kill police officers and warned of future attacks on their homes. This event highlights escalating threats from dissident republican groups who oppose the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, which largely ended sectarian violence in the region. The arrest was made under the United Kingdom’s Terrorism Act, and searches are ongoing.