Egyptian National Arrested for Alleged Terror Plot Against NYC Consulate

An 18-year-old Egyptian national and freshman at George Mason University was arrested this week in Falls Church, Virginia, for allegedly planning a terror attack on Israel’s general consulate in New York City. The suspect, Abdullah Ezzeldin Taha Mohamed Hassan, faces federal charges that could result in up to 20 years in prison if convicted.

Hassan, an alleged supporter of ISIS and Al Qaeda, reportedly used social media to disseminate extremist propaganda encouraging violence against Jewish people and praising Osama bin Laden as his “idol.” His arrest comes after he allegedly attempted to recruit an undercover informant to join ISIS and execute a terrorist attack on U.S. soil.

Federal investigators say Hassan provided instructions on manufacturing explosives, including a video featuring a masked individual demonstrating the creation of acetone peroxide bombs. According to court documents, the video included detailed steps for assembling explosives with shrapnel, such as ball bearings, to maximize harm.

Key allegations include:

• Hassan’s plan to target the Israeli consulate in NYC, which he described as a “goldmine of targets.”

• His expressed desire for a mass casualty event, potentially involving a rifle, suicide vest, or backpack bomb.

• Active promotion of ISIS and Al Qaeda content online, including prayers for terrorist attacks at major sporting events.

The FBI had previously interviewed Hassan in 2022 regarding his involvement in spreading ISIS propaganda online. Authorities noted his knowledge of techniques to obscure his digital footprint, raising concerns about his ability to evade detection.

Hassan currently faces charges of attempting to teach bomb-making with the intent to murder internationally protected persons. Additional charges may follow as the investigation unfolds. Deportation proceedings are also underway, though they are likely to be delayed pending the outcome of his criminal trial.

This incident highlights the ongoing threat posed by lone actors inspired by extremist ideologies. Authorities continue to stress the importance of vigilance and collaboration between law enforcement agencies to thwart such attacks before they materialize.

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