Two teenagers, who claimed affiliation with the Islamic State (ISIS), have been accused of trying to detonate a bomb in New York City. The attempted attack took place near the official residence of New York Mayor Zohair Mamdani during two rival protests. Fortunately, the bomb failed to explode, preventing a potential disaster.
Federal prosecutors charged Emir Balat, 18, and Ibrahim Nikk Khayumi, 19, with using a “weapon of mass destruction” in the failed bombing attempt. Balat allegedly lit the fuse on one bomb, while Khayumi provided another bomb. Police intervened before the bombs could detonate, averting a possible tragedy.
New York authorities revealed that the homemade bombs contained metal objects and TATP, a deadly chemical. The suspects, who were arrested during the attack, were brought before a federal court. Balat expressed allegiance to ISIS, while Khayumi admitted being inspired by the organization for the attack.
The teenagers’ actions could have resulted in significant casualties, according to New York Counterterrorism Deputy Police Commissioner Rebecca Weiner. Authorities also discovered another bomb in a nearby car, which was retrieved using a robot. The suspects, originally from Turkey and Afghanistan, were detained following the foiled attack.
