The FBI has arrested Abdullah Ezzeldin Taha Mohamed Hassan, an 18-year-old Egyptian national and freshman at George Mason University in Virginia, for allegedly planning a mass terror attack on the Israeli Consulate in New York City. Hassan, described in court filings as a supporter of the Islamic State (ISIS) and other terrorist organizations, faces charges of providing instructions for making explosives with the intent to kill internationally protected persons. He could face up to 20 years in prison if convicted.
Social Media Leads to Investigation
Hassan came to the FBI’s attention earlier this year after a tipster reported his social media activity. Prosecutors allege that Hassan operated multiple accounts praising figures like Osama bin Laden and Ayman Al-Zawahiri while advocating violence against Jewish people. His posts also included ISIS propaganda and bomb-making instructions. The FBI traced these activities to his phone and an IP address on George Mason University’s campus in Virginia.
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Undercover Operation Uncovers Plot
After identifying Hassan, the FBI launched an undercover operation. An agent posing as a sympathizer contacted him, and Hassan allegedly recruited the agent to carry out a mass casualty attack. Over several days in November, Hassan provided detailed instructions for bomb-making and identified the Israeli Consulate in New York as the target, describing it as “a goldmine of targets.” He also sent the agent ISIS propaganda videos and links to purchase weapons and explosive materials.
Detailed Plans for Mass Casualties
Hassan reportedly suggested multiple methods of attack, including the use of assault rifles, a suicide vest, or a backpack bomb containing acetone-peroxide explosives. He even specified the size of ball bearings to maximize shrapnel impact. According to FBI documents, Hassan advised the undercover agent on how to escape the U.S. after the attack, suggesting flights to Borno, Africa, a known hotspot for extremist activities.
University and Community Response
George Mason University has banned Hassan from campus and emphasized its commitment to safety. University President Gregory Washington confirmed the arrest and stated that ongoing criminal proceedings would determine further disciplinary action. Campus police have increased patrols following the incident, which has sparked concern over rising tensions related to the Israel-Gaza conflict.
Broader Context of Rising Threats
Hassan’s arrest comes amid heightened threats against Jewish, Palestinian, and Muslim communities in the United States. Advocacy groups have pointed to an uptick in antisemitic and anti-Muslim incidents as geopolitical tensions escalate. New York Governor Kathy Hochul commended the FBI’s swift action, stating, “Hate has no place in New York, and we will always stand with our Jewish neighbors.”
Legal Proceedings and Deportation
Hassan is currently facing federal charges and is being held in Virginia. Although he is undergoing deportation proceedings, any sentence resulting from the criminal case would need to be served in the U.S. before deportation. His trial could also bring additional charges as investigations continue.
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This case follows another recent controversy at George Mason University, where two Palestinian student activists were banned from campus after authorities searched their home and found firearms and antisemitic materials. While university officials stated the two cases are unrelated, advocacy groups have raised concerns about profiling and free speech on campus.