Two Iranians who arrived in Britain via small boat have been charged with plotting a terror attack in the UK.
Salam Ahmadyan, 36, from Liverpool, and Rahman Salehi, 34, from Salford, were arrested in Manchester.
The two individuals charged are Iranian nationals who arrived via small boat in 2020 and 2023.
One of those charged was granted asylum, while the other has a live asylum claim.
The Home Office has confirmed it will closely monitor the criminal proceedings. They said they will take any appropriate immigration action once they have concluded.
They being charged with engaging in conduct in preparation for terrorist acts against Section 5 of the Terrorism Act 2006.
It is alleged the pair were in contact with an overseas third-party who may be in Iran in relation to the plot.
Both men will appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court tomorrow.
Following the charges, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said: “These recent events are a stark reminder of the threats posed against this country from both terrorists and foreign state actors.
“Two suspects have been charged with planning a terrorist attack against Jewish communities in Manchester.
“This news will be deeply distressing for our Jewish communities, coming so soon after Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.
“I know this will be especially true in Manchester, as we mark one year since the terrorist attack at Heaton Park Synagogue.
“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. While numbers are down, I know there is more we must do.
“It would be inappropriate to comment further on this case. But I can say that we will be unrelenting in our efforts to protect our Jewish communities, root out antisemitism in this country, and maintain our border security.
“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.
“The Prime Minister has been clear there are strong indications of Iran’s involvement in the events near RAF Fairford.
“We are responding to these threats with new powers and record funding to disrupt hostile activity. I’m grateful to our police and intelligence agencies for the exceptional work they do every day to keep us safe.”
The arrests were made in relation to offences ahead of the Jewish festival, Yom Kippur, Counter Terrorism Policing confirmed.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans, senior national coordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP), said: “These are extremely serious charges and allegations.
“This investigation has led to the disruption of what we believe to have been a plot targeting the Jewish community in Manchester.
“I would like to reiterate that we do not believe there to be any ongoing threat to the public in relation to this matter, but as always, we would ask that people remain vigilant and contact police with any concerns.”