A Pakistani national residing in Canada has been apprehended for allegedly planning a terror attack on a Jewish center in New York City. Muhammad Shahzeb Khan, 20, also known as Shahzeb Jadoon, was arrested on Wednesday, according to the US Justice Department.
Khan is accused of plotting a mass shooting in support of the Islamic State (IS) at a Jewish center in Brooklyn. The attack was intended to coincide with the anniversary of the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel.
Attorney General Merrick Garland confirmed the charges, highlighting that Khan’s goal was to cause significant harm to Jewish people in New York City. “The defendant is alleged to have planned a terrorist attack with the aim of killing as many Jewish individuals as possible,” Garland stated.
The plot was uncovered through conversations with individuals who were actually undercover law enforcement officers. Khan’s arrest was carried out by Canadian authorities in Ormstown, approximately 12 miles from the US-Canada border.
The US Justice Department has indicated plans to seek Khan’s extradition from Canada. He faces charges related to providing material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization and could face up to 20 years in prison if convicted.
Khan’s arrest underscores the ongoing collaboration between US and Canadian law enforcement agencies to prevent terrorist activities. The case highlights the vigilance required to thwart plans aimed at harming communities.
The planned attack was meant to mark a significant date in the context of ongoing conflicts, illustrating the dangerous intersections of global terrorism and local security concerns.