Full Breakdown
Iran-linked Bomb Plot Arrests Highlight UK Security Concerns
By Drooid · · How we work
Iran-linked Bomb Plot Arrests in Manchester
On September 20, 2026, two Iranian nationals—Salam Ahmadyan, 36, of Liverpool, and Rahman Salehi, 34, of Salford—were arrested in Manchester and later charged with preparing terrorist acts against the city’s Jewish community. Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP) said the men are alleged to have been in contact with an overseas third party believed to be based in Iran. Both suspects have been remanded in custody and are scheduled to appear before Westminster Magistrates’ Court.
Background and Context
The arrests come a year after the 2025 Heaton Park synagogue attack, which left several injured and heightened fears for Britain’s Jewish population. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has repeatedly warned that the Iranian regime targets Jewish communities abroad and uses proxy networks to conceal its involvement. The two men entered the UK by small boat, arriving in 2020 and 2023; one was granted asylum while the other maintains a live asylum claim.
Official Statements and Responses
Home Secretary Mahmood described the case as a “stark reminder” of threats posed by both terrorist groups and foreign state actors, emphasizing the need to protect Jewish communities and to strengthen border security. She also noted that the government is deploying new powers and increased funding to disrupt hostile activity, praising police and intelligence agencies for their work. The Prime Minister echoed concerns, stating there are strong indications of Iranian involvement in recent hostile incidents, including those near RAF Fairford, and affirmed continued support for security services.
Criticism and Opposition
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage criticized the government’s border policy, claiming that Labour MPs dismissed earlier warnings and that the current approach invites “terror and horror” into communities. Farage argued that the Home Secretary should resign if she disagrees with his assessment of the national emergency at the borders.
Data and Statistics
- Arrests: 2 individuals (Ahmadyan and Salehi)
- Ages: 36 and 34
- Charges: Conduct in preparation for terrorist acts under Section 5 of the Terrorism Act 2006
- Arrival in UK: 2020 and 2023 via small-boat crossings
- Legal status: One granted asylum, one with a pending asylum claim
- Court appearance: Westminster Magistrates’ Court (scheduled after September 20, 2026)
These developments underscore ongoing concerns about foreign-state-linked terrorism and the UK’s immigration and security policies.