Full Breakdown
Iranian Men Charged Over Alleged Bomb Plot Targeting Manchester’s Jewish Community
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
On September 20, 2026, two Iranian nationals—Rahman Salehi, 34, of Salford, and Salam Ahmadyan, 36, of Liverpool—were arrested in Manchester and later appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court. Prosecutors allege the pair conducted “hostile reconnaissance” of the Heaton Park Congregation Synagogue and the nearby Jewish Museum, acquired materials for a homemade chlorine bomb, and received instructions from a third party believed to be operating from within Iran.
Background & Context
The alleged plot follows a deadly attack on October 2, 2025 at the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue, where two worshippers were killed and three others injured during Yom Kippur. That incident, carried out by a British citizen of Syrian descent, heightened security concerns for Jewish sites across the United Kingdom. In the months preceding the September arrests, the country experienced a series of antisemitic incidents, including a knife attack in north London. British officials have also been monitoring separate alleged Iranian-linked threats, such as a suspected plot targeting RAF Fairford airbase, though police stress no operational link between the two investigations.
Data & Statistics
- Arrest date: September 20, 2026 (the eve of Yom Kippur).
- Ages: Salehi 34; Ahmadyan 36.
- Immigration status: Both entered the UK via small-boat crossings; Salehi was granted asylum in 2023, Ahmadyan holds a pending asylum claim.
- Previous attack casualties (2025): 2 dead, 3 seriously injured.
- Next court date: October 23, 2026 (scheduled hearing).
Official Statements & Responses
He added that the suspects had obtained a document titled *Steps for Making a Powder Chlorine and Car Brake Oil/Fluid Bomb* and used online resources to map potential targets.
She reiterated that the Manchester investigation is unrelated to the RAF Fairford case.
Laurence Taylor, head of counter-terrorism policing, highlighted a broader trend, stating that antisemitic sentiment has been appearing with increasing frequency.
On-the-Ground Reports
Community leaders expressed heightened anxiety as the arrests occurred just before the High Holy Days. Local synagogues increased security measures and urged congregants to remain vigilant while cooperating with police investigations.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Authorities have not released detailed technical information about the alleged bomb components, citing ongoing investigations. Police also stress that the Manchester plot and the RAF Fairford incident are “not connected in any way,” but no further evidence has been disclosed to substantiate the lack of linkage.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We continue to see antisemitic sentiment appearing with increasing frequency,” — Laurence Taylor
- “The fact both suspects arrived by small boat several years ago is a reminder of the importance of our relentless work to tackle illegal migration into this country,” — Shabana Mahmood, home secretary
What’s Next
The two defendants will remain in custody pending a hearing at the Old Bailey on October 23, 2026. Prosecutors are expected to present further evidence of the alleged Iranian coordination and the planned explosive device. Police have indicated that protective measures for Jewish sites will continue throughout the upcoming High Holy Days.