An ISIS supporter allegedly plotted a summer massacre targeting Jewish schools, synagogues, and restaurants across Manchester, boasting to an undercover agent about poisoning children and executing victims. The chilling plan involved reconnaissance tours of Jewish neighborhoods and stockpiling assault weapons for coordinated attacks.

Walid Saadaoui, 37, a Tunisian-born former restaurateur, faces terrorism charges for allegedly planning the 2024 attack designed to kill "as many Jews as possible," according to Newsmax. Prosecutors say he was secretly recorded during reconnaissance missions through Manchester's predominantly Jewish areas in March 2024.

Counterterrorism police discovered an arsenal of weapons in Saadaoui's possession during a May 2024 raid, including assault rifles and nearly 200 rounds of ammunition. His co-defendant, Amar Hussein, also faces related terrorism charges, with both men denying the allegations despite extensive recorded evidence.

Reconnaissance Tours Target Jewish Areas

Saadaoui allegedly escorted an undercover operative known only as "Farouk" on detailed surveillance missions through Manchester's Jewish neighborhoods. The tours focused on Salford, Cheetham Hill, and Prestwich, areas with significant Jewish populations. During these walks, prosecutors say Saadaoui systematically identified potential targets, including schools, synagogues, and community centers.

The defendant allegedly pointed out Jewish schools where children were playing, making disturbing comments about their vulnerability. "This is Salford, the area has a lot of Jews," he reportedly told the undercover agent during one reconnaissance mission. His detailed knowledge of the neighborhoods suggests extensive prior surveillance and planning for the alleged attack.

Prosecutors say Saadaoui's tour included specific locations such as Lubavitch Boys School and King David School, where he observed children at play. "Look, they are playing football... They look like English people," he allegedly remarked while watching Jewish children. The systematic nature of these observations indicates careful target selection and tactical planning for maximum casualties.

Extremist Ideology Drives Murder Plot

Saadaoui allegedly invoked radical religious justifications for targeting Jewish children and families throughout his conversations with the undercover agent. He reportedly described killing Jewish children as a "path to heaven," telling Farouk that young victims would achieve salvation because "they didn't reach the age of accountability yet." This twisted interpretation of religious doctrine demonstrates the extremist ideology driving his alleged murder plot.

The defendant allegedly referred to his intended victims using dehumanizing language, calling them "killers of the messengers and prophets" during recorded conversations. He reportedly told the agent: "These are the killers of the messengers and prophets... They have big congregations. I just need to know. We will execute." Such rhetoric reflects common ISIS propaganda tactics designed to justify violence against civilian populations.

Prosecutors say Saadaoui expanded his target list beyond Jewish victims to include Christians, whom he allegedly referred to as "crusaders." "After we finish with the Jews, we move on to the crusaders," he reportedly told the undercover operative. This broader targeting strategy aligns with ISIS ideology that promotes violence against multiple religious groups as part of their apocalyptic worldview.

Weapons Arsenal And Attack Planning

Police raids on Saadaoui's vehicle revealed a substantial weapons cache that prosecutors say was assembled for the planned massacre. Officers allegedly discovered two assault rifles, a semi-automatic pistol, and nearly 200 rounds of ammunition hidden in his car. The quantity and type of weapons suggest preparation for sustained combat operations rather than a simple attack.

Investigators believe Saadaoui was actively acquiring additional firepower beyond the weapons already in his possession. Prosecutors say he was awaiting delivery of two more rifles and another pistol at the time of his arrest. This ongoing arms procurement indicates the attack was still in active planning stages when authorities intervened.

The defendant allegedly discussed tactical details with the undercover agent, including methods for concealing weapons and coordinating movements during the attack. He reportedly told Farouk to use "bags" to hide guns and instructed: "If they move to the left, you will kill them on the left." Such specific tactical discussions demonstrate advanced operational planning beyond mere ideological conversations.

Lessons to Learn

1. Community vigilance is essential. This case reveals the critical role that covert operations and community tip-offs can play in preventing mass violence. Civilians who notice suspicious behavior—whether anti-community rhetoric or unusual activity—should feel encouraged to report it without delay.

2. Online platforms are often exploited. Saadaoui's reported attempt to infiltrate online Jewish groups using fake identities shows how digital spaces can be misused. Community leaders and platforms must stay alert and monitor for suspicious accounts, using robust verification procedures to protect vulnerable members.

3. Weapon acquisition leaves clues. The discovery of firearms and surveillance of weapon purchases helped authorities halt this attack. Law enforcement and arms dealers must maintain strict oversight of regulated sales, and the public should understand the importance of reporting any suspicious weapons activity.

Even with these strategies, crime can happen to anyone. Victims should never be blamed, and communities must focus on resilience, not fear.

Why This Story Matters

This case is a powerful reminder of the very real threats posed by religiously motivated extremism. It underscores the importance of coordinated efforts among intelligence agencies, local communities, and undercover operatives. Antisemitism and hate-fueled violence remain dangerous forces in modern society. Stories like this show the importance of proactively rooting out radical ideologies before words turn into deadly actions. The successful disruption of this plan may have saved countless lives, but it also calls for ongoing awareness and prevention strategies in every community.

In conclusion, prosecutors allege that Walid Saadaoui orchestrated a detailed plan to murder Jewish civilians in Manchester during the summer of 2024, targeting schools, synagogues, and public gatherings. He allegedly took an undercover agent through Jewish neighborhoods, highlighted potential sites, and expressed violent intentions, including the use of poison and firearms. Authorities discovered a cache of weapons in his vehicle and say the plan was close to implementation. Saadaoui and his co-defendant have pleaded not guilty, with trials ongoing.