Man Arrested for ISIS-Inspired Plot to Target Jews in NYC, Say Prosecutors

A Pakistani national residing in Canada has been accused of plotting a mass attack on the Jewish community in New York City. The individual, identified as Muhammad Shahzeb Khan, 20, was arrested this week and charged with attempting to provide material support to ISIS, according to federal prosecutors.

The criminal complaint outlines a chilling plan in which Khan intended to travel from Canada to Brooklyn, targeting a Jewish center for a mass shooting. His preparations reportedly began last November when he started expressing support for ISIS on social media and through encrypted messaging apps.

Khan’s communications escalated as he interacted with two undercover law enforcement officers, during which he discussed a “coordinated assault” using AR-style rifles aimed specifically at “Israeli Jewish chabads.” The plot took a more sinister turn when Khan indicated that specific dates were particularly suitable for an attack, mentioning October 7 and October 11. The former marks the anniversary of the Hamas attack on Israel, while the latter is Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar.

In his messages, Khan argued that New York City was an ideal target due to its large Jewish population. He reportedly stated, “even if we don’t attack a[n] Event[,] we could rack up easily a lot of jews,” expressing a clear intent to inflict harm on a vulnerable community. He further claimed, “we are going to NYC to slaughter them,” even going so far as to send a photograph highlighting the location where he intended to carry out this horrific assault.

Attorney General Merrick Garland commented on the case, stating that Khan’s alleged plan constituted a terrorist attack with the goal of killing as many Jewish individuals as possible in a violent act carried out in the name of ISIS. He emphasized that Jewish communities, like all communities across the country, should not live in fear of such hate-fueled terrorism.

Khan is charged with one count of providing material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization. If found guilty, he could face a severe penalty, including a potential 20-year prison sentence. The case underscores ongoing concerns regarding the rise of anti-Semitic violence and the recruitment of individuals into extremist ideologies.

This incident not only highlights the threat posed by foreign terrorist organizations but also the critical need for vigilance and prevention efforts surrounding hate-driven acts of violence. The concern for safety in religious and ethnic communities remains paramount, as law enforcement agencies continually work to thwart potential terrorist activities before they can materialize.

As investigations continue, the judicial process will unfold, with a focus on holding Khan accountable for his alleged plotting and intentions. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of community awareness and cooperation with law enforcement to address and counteract terrorism and hate.

Source: ABC News