Muhammad Shahzeb Khan, a Pakistani citizen residing in Canada, is facing a federal charge for planning an attack on a New York City Jewish center in support of the Islamic State group. He allegedly intended to carry out the attack on or around Oct. 7, the anniversary of a terrorist attack by Hamas. Khan was arrested 12 miles from the U.S.-Canada border while traveling from Toronto to New York City.
Khan communicated with undercover officers, expressing his desire to slaughter as many Jewish people as possible in the name of ISIS. He asked for assistance in obtaining semiautomatic rifles and knives for the attack. He also planned to hire a smuggler to help him cross the border into the United States.
Khan has been charged with attempting to provide support to a designated foreign terrorist organization, which could result in up to 20 years in prison if convicted. It is unclear if he has obtained legal counsel. The FBI is continuing to investigate the case to ensure justice for Jewish communities and prevent future hate-fueled attacks.
Attorney General Merrick B. Garland emphasized the seriousness of the alleged plot and the need for vigilance against extremist threats. The FBI and Canadian authorities are credited with Khan’s arrest, and efforts are ongoing to prevent such acts of terrorism.
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