Plot Was ‘Targeting Heart’ of New York’s Jewish Community, Tisch Says
The New York Times • • nation
Key Points:
- Mohammad Baqer Saad Dawood al-Saadi, an Iranian-backed militia commander, was charged with planning attacks on a New York synagogue and other targets in the U.S., including Americans and Jews in Los Angeles.
- Al-Saadi, who had orchestrated at least 20 attacks in Europe and Canada, was detained in Turkey and extradited to the U.S., where he appeared in federal court and is scheduled for a hearing on May 29.
- The targeted synagogue, unnamed by officials, was chosen because it supported Israel and Zionism, with the attack intended to send a message against Israel's right to exist.
- New York Police Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch emphasized the threat to the Jewish community amid heightened tensions, while Mayor Zohran Mamdani condemned the plot and praised law enforcement efforts.