A man who planned to attack the Jewish community expressed his admiration for Islamic State during police interrogations following his arrest. In a video released by the authorities, the individual, identified as Amar Hussein, 52, proudly declared his support for ISIS, claiming they were true Muslims who upheld sharia law. When questioned about the distinction between ISIS and other Muslims, he asserted that ISIS members were the only genuine followers who implemented sharia law.
Hussein and his accomplice, Walid Saadaoui, 38, were convicted of conspiring to carry out a mass shooting targeting Jewish individuals. The court revealed that their sinister scheme, if successful, would have resulted in one of the deadliest firearm attacks in the UK. Upon sentencing at Preston Crown Court, Judge Mr. Justice Mark Wall KC emphasized the duo’s intention to launch a deadly assault using AK47 Kalashnikov weapons in Manchester.
The judge condemned the defendants as anti-Semitic and fervent ISIS supporters, noting their specific intent to harm the Jewish community. Walid Saadaoui received a life sentence with a minimum term of 37 years, while Amar Hussein, who refused to appear in court, was labeled a coward and sentenced to life with a minimum of 26 years. Additionally, Walid’s brother, Bilel Saadaoui, was found guilty of withholding information about terrorist activities and received a six-year, 165-day sentence.
The trio’s trial uncovered their elaborate plans to target schools and synagogues within the Jewish community of Greater Manchester. Their primary objective was to harm Jews, with any Christian casualties considered an added bonus. The police intervention prevented what could have been the UK’s most devastating terrorist attack, as Saadaoui was caught trying to obtain assault rifles and ammunition from an undercover operative named Farouk.
The Saadaoui brothers, originally from Tunisia, swore allegiance to ISIS before relocating to the UK legally. Hussein, who also pledged allegiance to ISIS, claimed to have served in Saddam Hussein’s army. The undercover operation that led to their arrest demonstrated the authorities’ commitment to thwarting terrorist activities and safeguarding the public.
Chief Constable Sir Stephen Watson emphasized the defendants’ extreme hatred towards the Jewish community and commended law enforcement for preventing a potential massacre. He highlighted the unwavering dedication of the authorities in ensuring the safety and security of all citizens.
