FBI Thwarts ISIS-Inspired Election Day Terror Plot on American Soil

Police car with flashing red and blue lights.

An Afghan national living in the U.S. has been arrested for allegedly plotting an ISIS-inspired terrorist attack aimed at disrupting Election Day, highlighting the ongoing threats to national security and democratic processes.

At a Glance

  • Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi, 27, was arrested in Oklahoma City for planning an ISIS-inspired attack on Election Day
  • Tawhedi entered the U.S. on a Special Immigrant Visa in 2021 and is currently on parole status
  • The suspect allegedly viewed ISIS propaganda and contributed cryptocurrency to a Syria-based charity linked to the terrorist group
  • FBI Director Christopher Wray emphasized that combating terrorism remains the Bureau’s top priority
  • The case underscores concerns about potential political violence surrounding the upcoming election

FBI Thwarts ISIS-Inspired Election Day Plot

The Federal Bureau of Investigation has successfully prevented a potential terrorist attack on American soil, arresting Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi, a 27-year-old Afghan citizen, for allegedly planning an ISIS-inspired assault targeting Election Day. Tawhedi, who entered the United States on a Special Immigrant Visa in September 2021, was apprehended in Oklahoma City after attempting to purchase weapons from an undercover FBI agent.

According to federal authorities, Tawhedi and his co-conspirators, including his juvenile brother-in-law, had been meticulously planning the attack. Their preparations included attempting to sell their family home, relocate their families abroad, and acquire firearms and ammunition. The group’s ultimate goal was to target large gatherings on Election Day, intending to support the ISIS terrorist organization.

Alarming Evidence Uncovered

Investigators discovered that Tawhedi had viewed ISIS propaganda and contributed $540 in cryptocurrency to a charity in Syria linked to the terrorist group. The suspect also conducted online searches for surveillance camera access in Washington, D.C., and sought information on areas with less restrictive gun laws, raising red flags for law enforcement agencies.

“Their ultimate aim was to stage a violent attack in the United States in the name of and on behalf of ISIS,” stated Attorney General Merrick Garland, emphasizing the gravity of the thwarted plot.

The FBI’s investigation revealed that Tawhedi had communicated about purchasing two Kalashnikov rifles and 500 bullets, while also discussing plans to resettle his family in Afghanistan. In messages intercepted by authorities, Tawhedi wrote, “After that we will begin our duty, God willing, with the help of God, we will get ready for the election day,” clearly indicating his intentions for the planned attack.

National Security Implications

This arrest comes at a time when national security officials have warned of an elevated terrorism threat, exacerbated by ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. The case highlights the critical role of intelligence sharing and proactive law enforcement in safeguarding American citizens and the democratic process.

“Terrorism is still the FBI’s number one priority, and we will use every resource to protect the American people,” FBI Director Christopher Wray stated, underscoring the Bureau’s commitment to national security.

The Justice Department has charged Tawhedi with providing material support to a foreign terrorist organization and attempting to procure firearms for terrorism. These charges carry potential prison sentences of up to 20 years and 15 years, respectively, reflecting the severity of the alleged crimes.

As the nation approaches another crucial election, this foiled plot serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing threats to America’s democratic institutions and the vigilance required to protect them. The successful intervention by federal law enforcement agencies demonstrates the effectiveness of our national security apparatus in identifying and neutralizing potential threats before they can materialize into devastating attacks on American soil.

Sources:

  1. Afghan national arrested for allegedly plotting ISIS-inspired Election Day terrorist attack
  2. Afghan man charged over Election Day terrorist plot “in the name of ISIS”
  3. Afghan man arrested in alleged US election day attack plot
  4. Afghan national living in the U.S. charged with plotting an Election Day terrorist attack
  5. Afghan National Arrested for Plotting an Election Day Terrorist Attack in the Name of ISIS
  6. Afghan Man Arrested on Charges of Plotting Election Day Attack