An Iraqi man, Mohammad Baqer Saad Dawood al-Saadi, has been extradited to New York to face federal terrorism charges. He’s accused of organizing nearly two dozen terrorist attacks across Europe and planning strikes against Jewish facilities in the United States. This follows what the FBI described as a significant international operation.
Since early March, al-Saadi and his associates have reportedly coordinated 18 attacks linked to Ashab al-Yamin, a pro-Iranian Islamist group responsible for various assaults on Jewish schools, synagogues, and charities in Europe, as well as targeting dissidents in countries like the U.S., Israel, and Iran. FBI Director Kash Patel highlighted the operation’s success, stating it reflects the administration’s commitment to bringing terrorists to justice. He praised the collaborative efforts of agents and allies involved in the mission.
Al-Saadi had shared a message on his Telegram account that encouraged Islamic fighters to join their jihad on March 9, featuring the group’s logo. Federal prosecutors noted that he also posted videos showcasing attacks on Jewish sites in Belgium, the Netherlands, and the UK. There is a growing concern as the FBI learned that he was planning to extend his group’s activities into the U.S. He is believed to have directed efforts for attacks on synagogues and other Jewish institutions here.
Additionally, he’s facing allegations for publicly threatening former President Donald Trump and his family. Al-Saadi is slated to appear before a federal court in New York on Friday, facing six terrorism charges, including conspiracy to support a terrorist organization.
