Federal authorities arrested and charged an Iraqi national, Mohammad Baqer Saad Dawood al-Saadi, with coordinating and planning at least 18 terrorist attacks in Europe targeting Americans and Jews, as well as attacks in Canada and the US, according to a federal criminal complaint.
"He agreed to pay $10,000 for the attack and insisted it be recorded and occur on April 6."
Charges
- Conspiracy to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization
- Conspiracy to provide material support for acts of terrorism
- Conspiracy to bomb a place of public use
Allegations
Al-Saadi allegedly directed and urged others to attack US and Israeli interests in retaliation for the war in Iran, to further the goals of Kata'ib Hizballah and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. He coordinated two additional attacks in Canada and attempted to coordinate attacks in the US, including in New York City.
Al-Saadi allegedly attempted to orchestrate the bombing of a prominent Jewish synagogue in New York City. He believed he was communicating with a Mexican cartel member but was actually dealing with an undercover agent. He agreed to pay $10,000 for the attack and insisted it be recorded and occur on April 6. When the attack did not happen, he texted the undercover agent the next morning asking why.
Arrest
Officials have not stated how or when al-Saadi was arrested. Flight records indicate a Justice Department aircraft flew to Turkey and returned via Morocco, landing in the New York City area late Thursday.
Al-Saadi's attorney, Andrew J. Dalack, stated that he believes al-Saadi was arrested in Turkey by Turkish authorities, likely at the request of US authorities, and handed over without an opportunity to contest the legality of his detention or transport.
Court Proceedings
Al-Saadi was ordered held without bail. His attorney described him as a political prisoner and a prisoner of war, being punished for an alleged connection with the late Qasem Soleimani.