Iraqi National Charged in Multi-National Terror Plot Targeting U.S. And Israeli Interests

Federal prosecutors have charged an Iraqi national, Mohammad Baqer Saad Dawood al-Saadi, in connection with at least 18 reported terrorist attacks in Europe and a conspiracy to target institutions within the United States. The charges allege that Al-Saadi sought to retaliate for the war in Iran and attempted to disrupt American society through violence and intimidation.

Alleged Terror Campaign Across Europe

According to a federal criminal complaint, Al-Saadi allegedly carried out a series of terrorist attacks in Europe targeting U.S. And Israeli interests. These actions were reportedly intended to halt the ongoing conflict in Iran.

The complaint details several specific incidents occurring in major European cities:

• Amsterdam: An alleged firebombing of a Bank of New York Mellon building.
• Paris: An attempt to detonate improvised explosives at a Bank of America building.
• London: The stabbing of two individuals.

Plot to Target U.S. Institutions

Beyond the attacks in Europe, federal authorities allege that Al-Saadi attempted to expand his operations to the United States. Prosecutors claim that Al-Saadi engaged with an FBI undercover agent and paid $3,000 to plan attacks in California, Arizona, and at a synagogue in Manhattan.

During his initial appearance in Manhattan federal court on Friday, Al-Saadi reportedly spoke to his lawyer, Andrew Dalack, regarding his connection to the late Iranian General Qasem Soleimani, who was killed in a U.S. Strike in Iraq. During the proceedings, Al-Saadi allegedly referred to himself as a political prisoner and a prisoner of war.

Terrorist Affiliations and Background

Federal prosecutors have identified Al-Saadi as a high-level member of the Kata’ib Hizballah paramilitary group. The criminal complaint further alleges that he maintains ties to both Hezbollah and the Iran Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

Legal Proceedings and Next Steps

Al-Saadi was apprehended in Turkey and subsequently turned over to American authorities. He currently remains in custody following a court order for his detention. He faces a host of charges, including:

• Conspiracy to provide material support to terrorist groups.
• Conspiracy to bomb a place of public use.
• Other related federal offenses.

Al-Saadi is scheduled for his next court appearance on May 29.

Key Takeaways

• Suspect: Mohammad Baqer Saad Dawood al-Saadi, a high-level member of Kata’ib Hizballah.
• European Attacks: At least 18 reported attacks, including firebombing in Amsterdam and stabbings in London.
• U.S. Plot: Alleged conspiracy to attack locations in California, Arizona, and a Manhattan synagogue.
• Status: Apprehended in Turkey. next court date is May 29.