George Mason University Student Arrested for Plotting Mass-Casualty Attack on Israeli Consulate in New York
FBI Investigation Uncovered Extremist Online Activity
A 18-year-old student at George Mason University, Abdullah Ezzeldin Taha Mohamed Hassan, was arrested by the FBI and charged with distributing information about weapons of mass destruction, after allegedly plotting a mass-casualty attack against the Israeli consulate in New York.
Background
The FBI began investigating Hassan in early May after the Fairfax County Police Department shared an anonymous tip that he was engaging in "radical and terrorist-leaning behavior" on social media. Hassan, an Egyptian national, had created at least three social media accounts to spread extremist ideology, including one that called Osama bin Laden his "idolo."
Plot to Attack Israeli Consulate
The FBI investigation revealed that Hassan had spent over a month recruiting an anonymous FBI source to help him conduct a mass-casualty attack. He had planned to target the Consulate General of Israel in New York, sharing specific information on how to create a bomb, escape to a country with no extradition laws, and livestream the attack to share footage with the ISIS media department.
Additional Evidence
Court documents show that Hassan had shared pro-ISIS propaganda, videos calling for the killing of Jews, and videos explaining how to make bombs. He also advocated for attacks on government buildings.
Arrest and Charges
The criminal complaint against Hassan was filed on December 16 in Alexandria, Virginia. He is charged with distributing information about weapons of mass destruction, explosives, and destructive devices, as well as first-degree murder of internationally protected persons.
University Response
George Mason University released a statement to the campus community, assuring students of their safety and outlining enhanced precautions to maintain a secure environment. The university has barred Hassan from entering campus property and will take appropriate action on student code of conduct violations as the criminal proceedings progress.
Student Reaction
Some students were shocked by the news, with one student saying, "You kind of hear about it on the news, but it’s usually not anywhere near you." Another student noted, "There’s a lot of radicalism and it’s going everywhere."
Conclusion
The arrest of a George Mason University student for plotting a mass-casualty attack is a serious concern for the university and the community. The FBI’s swift action in uncovering and preventing the plot highlights the importance of vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement agencies.
FAQs
Q: What was the alleged plot?
A: The alleged plot was to conduct a mass-casualty attack on the Israeli consulate in New York.
Q: What was the role of social media in the plot?
A: Hassan used social media to spread extremist ideology and recruit others for the plot.
Q: What was the reaction of George Mason University?
A: The university released a statement assuring students of their safety and outlining enhanced precautions to maintain a secure environment.
Q: What is the current status of Hassan?
A: Hassan is currently in custody and facing charges of distributing information about weapons of mass destruction, explosives, and destructive devices, as well as first-degree murder of internationally protected persons.
