In a case that has sent shockwaves through the United Kingdom’s security establishment, two men have been convicted for their roles in an Islamic State-inspired conspiracy to carry out what police described as the deadliest terrorist attack on British soil. Walid Saadaoui, 38, and Amar Hussein, 52, were found guilty following a high-stakes counter-terrorism investigation that thwarted a planned mass casualty event targeting Jewish residents in Greater Manchester.
Authorities revealed on January 2, 2026, that the plot had reached an advanced stage, involving the planned use of automatic weapons and explosives. The scale of the intended atrocity was designed to surpass the casualties of the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing, according to lead investigators from Counter Terrorism Policing North West.
The Anatomy of the Plot
The court heard that Saadaoui and Hussein were driven by extremist ideology and had spent months scouting specific locations within the Jewish community. Their preparations included:
- Tactical Surveillance: The pair conducted “dry runs” and reconnaissance at synagogues and Jewish schools.
- Weapon Procurement: Efforts were made to secure military-grade firearms and the chemical precursors for improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
- Global Links: Evidence suggested communication with overseas entities associated with the Islamic State (IS), aimed at coordinating the timing and propaganda impact of the attack.
The “Deadliest” Ambition
The prosecution characterized the plot as uniquely dangerous due to its “indiscriminate” nature. Unlike previous lone-actor incidents, this conspiracy involved a structured plan to maximize fatalities in high-density residential areas.
“The intent was clear: to cause maximum carnage and strike at the heart of our diverse communities. This was a sophisticated plan that, had it succeeded, would have left an indelible scar on the nation.” — Chief Constable’s Official Statement
While the defense argued that the men lacked the logistical capability to follow through, the jury was presented with encrypted messages and physical evidence that indicated a “clear and present” readiness to strike.
Community Response and Security Heightened
The conviction has prompted a renewed focus on the security of religious institutions across the UK. Community groups, including the Community Security Trust (CST), have worked closely with the Home Office to bolster protection for Jewish neighborhoods.
The case also highlights the evolving nature of the terror threat in 2026, where digital radicalization continues to fuel local conspiracies. Home Secretary Jennifer Carroll MacNeill praised the “unseen work” of the intelligence services, noting that the disruption of this cell likely saved hundreds of lives.
