NYC Bomb Plot: Teens Inspired by ISIS, Traveled to Middle East
Two Pennsylvania teenagers have been arrested in connection with an alleged ISIS-inspired bomb plot in Novel York City. Emir Balat, 18, and Ibrahim Kayumi, 19, are accused of throwing improvised explosive devices (IEDs) during a protest outside Gracie Mansion on Saturday, March 7, 2026. Authorities say both suspects expressed allegiance to the Islamic State terror group.
The Incident
The incident occurred during a protest organized by far-right influencer Jake Lang against alleged “Islamification” and to call for a “stop of public Muslim prayer” in New York City. Balat allegedly threw an IED near police officers around 12:30 p.m., which extinguished itself shortly after being thrown. He then allegedly secured a second device from Kayumi and threw it on East End Avenue. This second device did not ignite. A third device was later found in a vehicle approximately three blocks south of Gracie Mansion.
The Devices
New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch confirmed the devices were real IEDs and could have caused serious injury or death. The IEDs contained triacetone triperoxide (TATP), a highly volatile explosive material previously linked to ISIS attacks, including the 2015 Paris attacks. The devices consisted of a sports drink bottle filled with TATP, placed inside a glass jar wrapped in tape, and surrounded by nuts, bolts, screws, and a hobby fuse connected to an M80-type firework.
The Suspects
Emir Balat, of Middletown, Pennsylvania, and Ibrahim Kayumi, of Newtown Township, Pennsylvania, were taken into custody at the scene. Both allegedly admitted to being inspired by ISIS shortly after their arrest. Balat reportedly made pro-ISIS statements while in police custody, stating, “This isn’t a religion that just stands when people talk about the blessed name of the prophet. We take action. If I didn’t do it someone else will arrive and do it.” He also allegedly pledged allegiance to the Islamic State in a written statement. Kayumi allegedly told officers he had been watching ISIS propaganda on his phone.
Travel History
Investigators are examining the suspects’ recent travel history. Kayumi was in Istanbul for multiple weeks in July and August 2024, and also visited Saudi Arabia in March 2024. Balat traveled to Turkey multiple times in the past year, with his most recent trip occurring in January 2026. He also visited Turkey from May to August 2025.
FBI Investigation
The FBI raided the homes of both suspects on Sunday, March 8, 2026. At Kayumi’s $2.25 million home in Newtown, at least 10 agents were present and one man was detained. At Balat’s $653,000 home in Langhorne, two men and a woman were taken into custody. Charges against Kayumi and Balat are pending, but a “terror investigation” is underway. Prosecutors expect a federal indictment to be released on Monday, March 9, 2026.
Other Arrests
An individual from the protest, Ian McGinnis, 21, was arrested for allegedly using pepper spray against counter-protesters. Three others were also arrested for disorderly conduct and traffic obstruction.
No Injuries Reported
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani and his family were not at home during the incident, and no injuries were reported.