A married ISIS terrorist, already serving time for the horrific rape of a child, has been convicted of plotting a mass casualty attack on a Manchester synagogue that could have resulted in countless deaths.
Chilling Plot Uncovered
Hani Zahab, 34, was found guilty at Manchester Crown Court of preparing terrorist acts targeting a Jewish community in Manchester. The prosecution revealed he had conducted extensive research on synagogue locations and was actively planning to acquire weapons for the attack.
Dangerous Extremist Connections
Court evidence showed Zahab maintained direct communications with senior ISIS commanders in Syria while orchestrating his UK-based attack plans. Counter-terrorism officers described him as a "committed and dangerous extremist" with direct links to terrorist leadership.
Previous Heinous Crimes
The terrorist is currently serving a 14-year sentence for raping a child under 13, a conviction that came just months before his terrorist plotting was uncovered. This dual conviction highlights the severe threat posed by the defendant to multiple vulnerable groups.
Sophisticated Attack Planning
Investigators discovered Zahab had:
- Researched multiple synagogue locations across Manchester
- Sought to obtain firearms and other weapons
- Maintained encrypted communications with ISIS leadership
- Studied attack methodologies used in previous terrorist incidents
Community Response
Manchester's Jewish community leaders have expressed both relief at the conviction and ongoing concerns about security. The case has prompted renewed discussions about protecting religious institutions from terrorist threats.
Detective Chief Superintendent Andrew Meeks of Counter Terrorism Policing North West stated: "This conviction demonstrates our relentless pursuit of those who plot to cause harm in our communities. We remain vigilant against all terrorist threats."
Zahab will be sentenced next month and faces substantial additional prison time for his terrorist convictions.
