Pakistani man charged for plotting attack on Jews in New York

A 20-year-old Pakistani national, Muhammad Shahzeb Khan, was arrested in Quebec for allegedly plotting a mass shooting targeting Jewish people in New York. The arrest occurred on September 13, 2023, as Khan was en route to the U.S. to execute his plan around the anniversary of a significant Hamas attack on Israel. U.S. authorities indicated that Khan had expressed intentions to create an Islamic State cell and had discussed acquiring weapons for the attack. The investigation, conducted by the FBI in collaboration with the RCMP, revealed that Khan had been communicating with undercover officers since July, detailing his desire to carry out violent acts against Jewish religious centers. He had chosen October 7 as the date for the attack, anticipating protests that would provide cover for his actions. The FBI noted that Khan's plan was to be the largest attack on U.S. soil since 9/11. Khan's arrest was facilitated by swift action from Canadian law enforcement, who monitored his movements closely. He was apprehended approximately 19 kilometers from the U.S. border after switching vehicles multiple times during his journey. The RCMP emphasized that while Khan's actions were escalating, he was not considered an immediate threat prior to his arrest. This incident highlights the growing concern over violent extremism and antisemitism, with officials condemning the planned attack as a deplorable act of hate. The U.S. is seeking Khan's extradition to face charges related to his intentions to support a terrorist organization and commit acts of violence against a specific community.