Iraqi National Charged in Manhattan with Plotting U.S. Terror Attacks, Including Synagogue

An Iraqi national is facing federal terrorism charges in a Manhattan court after the U.S. Justice Department accused him of plotting a series of attacks on American soil, including a planned attack on a synagogue in New York City.

The suspect, identified as Mohammad al-Saadi, allegedly coordinated a wave of attacks across Europe before shifting his focus to the United States. Prosecutors said he discussed potential targets in New York, California, and Arizona, describing him as a “serious threat to national security.”

According to federal officials, al-Saadi allegedly has ties to Iran-backed terrorist groups and is accused of helping coordinate attacks in retaliation for the war involving Iran. A criminal complaint alleges that he and his associates claimed responsibility for at least 18 attacks in Europe and two additional attacks in Canada before allegedly turning their attention to U.S. and Israeli-linked targets.

Federal prosecutors told the court that al-Saadi was planning to target a Manhattan synagogue during Passover in April. Authorities described him as a senior member of an Iran-backed militia group.

Investigators said al-Saadi communicated with someone he believed would assist in carrying out the attacks. That individual was actually an undercover law enforcement officer. According to the complaint, al-Saadi allegedly paid $3,000 upfront and promised an additional $10,000 in cryptocurrency while discussing possible attacks in California, Arizona, and against a synagogue in Manhattan.

New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said authorities are not identifying the synagogue involved but noted that the suspect allegedly selected a congregation known for supporting Israel.

Federal authorities said the investigation uncovered plans for an active attack targeting a New York City synagogue, along with additional plots in other states. Officials described the arrest as a significant disruption of potential terrorist activity.

Al-Saadi appeared in federal court in Manhattan on Friday and was ordered detained pending further proceedings. His next court appearance is scheduled for May 29. Authorities have not disclosed the specific synagogue that was allegedly targeted.