London, UK – Two men were convicted on Tuesday for orchestrating a large-scale terrorist plot aimed at killing Jewish individuals in northern England, a court has ruled. The sentencing at Preston Crown Court comes after prosecutors revealed an Islamic State-inspired scheme that authorities say could have led to one of the most devastating attacks on Jewish communities in the UK.
Foiled Attack Plan Could Have Caused Mass Casualties
Walid Saadaoui, 38, and Amar Hussein, 52, were found guilty of preparing to commit a terrorist act after detailed plans emerged during the trial that showed their intention to use automatic firearms to carry out a gun massacre targeting Jewish people in Greater Manchester. Saadaoui had arranged for several assault rifles, handguns and hundreds of rounds of ammunition to be smuggled into the UK, officials said.
The plot was disrupted in May 2024 when Saadaoui was finally arrested during an undercover sting operation designed to intercept weapon procurement before any attack could be launched. Prosecutors told the jury that the men had embraced extremist ideology and expressed a willingness to die during the assault.
Brother Also Convicted for Withholding Information
In addition to the two main defendants, Saadaoui’s brother, Bilel Saadaoui, 36, was convicted of failing to disclose crucial information to law enforcement about the planned attack. While not directly involved in preparing the assault, prosecutors demonstrated that Bilel was aware of the plot and chose to remain silent, a decision that led to his conviction under UK counter-terror laws.
Authorities Stress Ongoing Threat from Extremist Networks
Law enforcement officials highlighted the meticulous nature of the investigation, including months of surveillance, undercover work and international cooperation. Counter-terrorism leaders warned that while this particular plan was stopped, the case reflects the persistent danger posed by self-radicalized individuals influenced by violent ideologies online.
Police and counter-terrorism representatives lauded the complex operation that prevented potential mass casualties and reiterated their commitment to protecting vulnerable communities.
