“New York State on High Alert as Terror Plot Against Jewish Community is Foiled”
Federal authorities are intensifying their investigation into a terror threat targeting New York’s Jewish community. A 20-year-old Pakistani national, Mohamed Shahzeb Kahn, inspired by ISIL, is in custody after allegedly planning a massive attack aimed at killing as many Jews as possible.
Governor Hochul’s Response and Increased Vigilance
Governor Kathy Hochul announced on Sunday that New York is under a “heightened state of awareness” and that she is in regular contact with the Federal Terrorism Task Force. She described the threat as “deeply shocking” but emphasized that authorities have been vigilant in monitoring online chatter and social media.
Kahn was arrested as he attempted to enter the U.S. from Canada. According to a 19-count indictment, his objective was to target the Brooklyn Jewish Center in Crown Heights, which many believed to be the Chabad Lubavitch World Headquarters. Kahn had shared ISIL propaganda online and recruited associates to arm themselves with AR-15 assault-style weapons and ammunition. However, two of these associates were undercover law enforcement agents.
Terrorist’s Planned Attack and Community Response
FBI Agent Rob Kissane revealed that Kahn intended to execute his attack around October 7, the anniversary of the Hamas attack on Israel. With this date approaching, several hundred people gathered for their weekly vigil in Central Park, chanting, “Bring them home, bring them home now,” while holding photos and reading the names of hostages still held by Hamas.
Kahn reportedly viewed New York as a prime target due to its large Jewish population. Governor Hochul confirmed that state police are working closely with the Federal Terrorism Task Force and are on high alert for various threats. She assured that efforts are being made to keep the Jewish community safe.
Legal Proceedings and Extradition
The indictment indicates that Kahn boasted that his planned attack would have been the largest on U.S. soil since 9/11. He remains in custody in Canada, with extradition proceedings scheduled to bring him back to the U.S. later this week.
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