British counterterrorism police have charged two Iranian nationals with preparing an explosive device to target Manchester’s Jewish community around Yom Kippur. The September 20, 2026 arrests follow an MI5 investigation, as authorities separately investigate a hostile security incident near RAF Fairford.
Two Iranian Nationals Charged in Manchester
British authorities charged Rahman Salehi, 34, and Salam Ahmadyan, 36, with preparing to commit acts of terrorism or assisting others in doing so in Manchester on or before Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, which began at sundown on September 20. Law enforcement officers arrested the pair in broad daylight on September 20 during a joint operation between counterterrorism police and MI5.
Investigators allege that the two men gathered instructions and materials to manufacture a homemade bomb. According to police, the suspects obtained components for an improvised explosive device, including a document titled Steps for Making [a] Powder Chlorine and Car Brake Oil/Fluid Bomb
, alongside video instructions and encrypted messaging applications to communicate with an overseas third party believed to be in Iran.
“It is alleged that the two men were in contact with an overseas third-party who may be in Iran in relation to the plot.”
Counter-terrorism police, via The Guardian
The Crown Prosecution Service stated that both accused men are scheduled to appear at London’s Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Saturday.
Home Office Details Asylum Status
One of the men had been granted asylum, while the other had a live asylum claim, according to the Home Office.
Mahmood emphasized that the case involves foreign actors using proxies and criminal networks.
“It is no secret that this country faces a range of serious threats from the Iranian regime. They target our Jewish communities and try to silence their critics overseas, often through proxies and criminal networks to hide their involvement.”
Shabana Mahmood, Home Secretary
The Community Safety Trust noted that the charges coincide with the anniversary of the October 2, 2025 attack at the Heaton Park synagogue in Manchester, where two worshippers died. Jewish communities across Britain face rising antisemitic incidents.
Official Statements on State Threats
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans stated on Friday: I’m aware that the news of this alleged plot coming during the High Holy day period has caused a great deal of concern to the Jewish community, as well as with the wider public.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham previously noted strong indications of Iranian involvement in the Fairford incident, where five British nationals were initially arrested after suspicious vans approached the US-linked military base.
British officials continue to address hostile state threats from Tehran, while the Iranian government has denied involvement in both incidents, characterizing the accusations as propaganda.
Reporting by Sam Tobin and Michael Holden; Editing by Rosalba O’Brien. This story was originally published October 2, 2026 at 3:38 PM.
