A Pakistani ISIS supporter planning to massacre Jews in New York on the October 7 anniversary has been extradited to the United States after being apprehended near the Canadian border.
Key Takeaways
- Muhammad Shahzeb Khan, a 20-year-old Pakistani national and ISIS supporter, has been extradited from Canada to face charges for plotting mass shootings at Jewish centers in New York City
- Khan specifically targeted the October 7 anniversary of the Hamas attack on Israel for his planned massacre, considering it an optimal date due to Jewish gatherings
- The suspect was intercepted on September 4 near Ormstown, Quebec, just 12 miles from the US border, before he could enter the country to carry out his attack
- Khan faces charges of attempting to provide material support to ISIS and could receive up to 20 years in prison if convicted
- US authorities credit diligent law enforcement work for preventing what would have been a devastating antisemitic terrorist attack
ISIS-Inspired Terror Plot Against Jewish Americans Foiled
Federal authorities have successfully thwarted what could have been a devastating antisemitic terrorist attack on American soil. Muhammad Shahzeb Khan, a 20-year-old Pakistani national and ISIS supporter, has been extradited from Canada to the United States after allegedly plotting mass shootings at Jewish centers in New York City. The plot was specifically timed to coincide with the anniversary of the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack on Israel, which Khan apparently viewed as an ideal opportunity to target Jewish Americans during commemorative gatherings.
Khan, also known as “Shahzeb Jadoon,” was apprehended on September 4 while attempting to travel from Canada to New York City. Canadian authorities intercepted him near Ormstown, Quebec, approximately 12 miles from the US border, after US intelligence identified him as a serious threat. The Department of Justice has now formally charged Khan with attempting to provide material support and resources to ISIS, a charge that carries a potential 20-year prison sentence if he is convicted.
Social Media Trail Led to Capture
Khan’s plot unraveled because of his extensive digital footprint supporting Islamic extremism. According to the Department of Justice, Khan had been actively sharing ISIS propaganda and expressing support for the terrorist organization on social media platforms since 2023. This online activity eventually brought him to the attention of federal investigators who were monitoring potential domestic threats. The investigation revealed a disturbing pattern of radicalization and intent to commit violence specifically targeting Jewish Americans.
The suspect’s downfall came after he began discussing his attack plans with individuals who turned out to be undercover FBI agents. Khan allegedly sought their assistance in acquiring assault rifles and other materials necessary for carrying out his planned massacre. He specifically identified October 7 and October 11 as optimal dates for attacks due to Jewish commemorative events that would be taking place. This level of detailed planning demonstrates the serious and imminent nature of the threat he posed.
Trump Administration Officials Respond
Senior officials in President Trump’s administration have emphasized the ongoing threat that ISIS and similar terrorist organizations pose to American citizens, particularly those in Jewish communities. The swift action taken in this case demonstrates the administration’s commitment to protecting vulnerable populations from ideologically motivated violence. The case represents a significant win for American counterterrorism efforts at a time when antisemitic incidents have been rising across the country.
US Attorney Jay Clayton praised the law enforcement community for their work in preventing Khan’s plot from being executed. The case is now being prosecuted by the Manhattan federal prosecutor’s office, which has significant experience handling terrorism-related charges. The successful extradition also highlights the important relationship between US and Canadian security forces in addressing cross-border threats and preventing terrorist activities that target Americans based on their religion.
Growing Threats Against Jewish Americans
This case occurs against a backdrop of increasing antisemitic threats and incidents nationwide. Khan’s specific targeting of the October 7 anniversary shows how terrorist organizations like ISIS continue to exploit political tensions and historical events to inspire violence. His attempt to enter the United States specifically to attack Jewish centers demonstrates the international nature of these threats and the need for continued vigilance by border security and counterterrorism agencies.
The extradition of Khan serves as a stark reminder that despite significant military defeats in the Middle East, ISIS continues to inspire individual actors around the world. The organization’s propaganda remains effective at radicalizing vulnerable individuals and directing them toward specific targets. The successful interdiction of this plot before any harm could come to American citizens represents a crucial victory in the ongoing battle against international terrorism and domestic extremism targeting religious minorities.
