Thwarted Plot Against Palestinian Activist
The New York Police Department (NYPD) and the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) have successfully disrupted an alleged plan targeting a Palestinian activist following weeks of undercover work. The suspect, 26-year-old Alexander Heifler, was apprehended in Hoboken, New Jersey, on Thursday evening.
Heifler is facing charges related to the illegal possession of firearms and the unauthorized creation of explosive devices. Authorities claim he intended to target activist Nerdeen Kiswani at her residence.
According to the Department of Justice (DOJ), the offenses related to destructive devices can lead to a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison alongside a fine up to $10,000.
The criminal complaint reveals that Heifler, during a group video call in February, expressed caution about what he was saying. The call included an undercover officer, during which he inquired about training for “self-defense” using items other than traditional weapons, later specifying his interest in creating Molotov cocktails.
Heifler subsequently arranged a meeting with the undercover agent to solidify his plans. He had already researched a specific address, indicating his intention to launch an attack with incendiary devices. Additionally, he discussed acquiring a fake license plate and mentioned a plan to flee the country shortly after the incident.
Prior to his arrest, Heifler took the undercover agent to surveil Kiswani’s home, where he outlined a plan to throw multiple Molotov cocktails at the property and nearby vehicles. He was arrested after an agent observed him assembling eight incendiary devices on Thursday.
“I feel very blessed that they were able to thwart this, but it’s something that is a constant possibility for people who speak up on behalf of Palestine,” Kiswani remarked. She emphasized that this plot wouldn’t hinder her activism.
Kiswani, who is 31, has been involved in organizing various pro-Palestine protests throughout New York City and co-founded Within Our Lifetime, a group advocating for Palestinian rights since 2015. Their mission is based on four key principles, starting with the belief that all Palestinians have the right to return to their historic homeland.
“We are anti-Zionists,” the organization states as its second tenet. They argue that Zionism stems from colonial ideologies and, therefore, reject any collaboration with Zionist groups.
The group also asserts that Palestinians have every right to resist the occupation by any means necessary and emphasizes a responsibility for those in the U.S. to fight against the violence tied to U.S. imperialism.
Hoboken Mayor Emily Jabbour announced an increase in police presence in the area, particularly in busy public spaces, to assure residents there’s no ongoing threat.
Heifler has not yet entered a plea but is expected to appear in federal court in Newark later on Friday.
