Pakistani man extradited to US over plot to attack Jewish centre on Oct 7 anniversary
In a coordinated counterterrorism move, the United States has extradited a 20-year-old Pakistani man accused of plotting a violent attack on a Jewish centre in New York. The suspect, Muhammad Shahzeb Khan, reportedly intended to carry out the shooting on October 7, 2024—the one-year anniversary of the Hamas assault on Israel.
Federal prosecutors say Khan, who was living in Canada, drew inspiration from ISIS and aimed to carry out a mass-casualty event. His arrest, carried out by Canadian authorities, led to Monday’s extradition and his upcoming court appearance in Manhattan on June 11, 2025.
Plot Timed to Spark Maximum Fear
According to the unsealed indictment, Khan had communicated with undercover agents he believed were ISIS operatives. During these exchanges, he expressed a desire to kill Jewish civilians and called for weapons to stage the attack.
He chose a well-known Jewish community centre in Brooklyn as his target. Importantly, he wanted to strike on or near October 7 and even considered another date—October 11—which coincided with Yom Kippur, a sacred Jewish holiday.
His stated goal was not only violence but psychological impact. “We are going to NYC to slaughter them,” he reportedly told agents, referencing the intended victims.
Arrest Near U.S. Border and Swift Extradition
Authorities apprehended Khan on September 4, 2024, in Ormstown, Quebec, a Canadian town near the U.S. border. This swift arrest followed months of intelligence work between the FBI, Canada’s RCMP, and other national security agencies.
Eventually, officials secured his extradition under a bilateral agreement. On June 10, 2025, he landed in New York under FBI custody to face federal charges.
Charges and Legal Outlook
The U.S. Department of Justice has charged Khan with multiple offenses, including:
- Conspiracy to provide material support to ISIS
- Attempted terrorism transcending national borders
- Firearms conspiracy linked to violent crime
If convicted, Khan could receive a life sentence.
Federal and International Responses
U.S. Attorney Damian Williams praised law enforcement for stopping the plot before lives were lost. “This was a deadly plan rooted in hate,” he said, emphasizing the urgency of intervention.
FBI Director Christopher Wray warned that extremist ideologies still pose a threat. “Khan deliberately chose a Jewish institution on a symbolic date. This underscores the danger of online radicalization.”
Meanwhile, FBI counterterrorism chief Kash Patel, who played a key role in the case, highlighted the global nature of the threat. He noted that cross-border coordination helped dismantle what could have been a devastating attack.
ISIS Radicalization Still a Global Risk
Security experts believe Khan became radicalized online through ISIS propaganda. Unlike traditional operatives, modern extremists often work alone and communicate through encrypted apps, making detection more difficult.
“Terrorism today doesn’t always come from the battlefield,” explained terrorism analyst Jacob Stein. “It comes from the internet, the algorithm, and lone actors seeking recognition.”
This case illustrates how quickly individuals can adopt extremist beliefs and act on them without direct orders from organized groups.
Jewish Community Reacts with Caution and Gratitude
Jewish advocacy groups have responded with a mix of relief and concern. The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) issued a statement applauding authorities for their quick action. However, they also reminded the public that antisemitic threats remain constant.
“Targeting a Jewish community on the October 7 anniversary is no coincidence,” said ADL spokesperson Lisa Grobman. “It’s designed to inflict both physical and emotional harm.”
In response to the news, the New York Police Department (NYPD) confirmed that it would step up patrols near synagogues and community centres during key Jewish observances this year.
The Bigger Picture: Why This Case Matters
Beyond one man’s arrest, this case exposes deeper issues facing global security. It demonstrates how terrorist ideologies can cross borders effortlessly—and how cooperation between nations remains vital in stopping violence before it unfolds.
Moreover, it highlights the growing need for tech platforms to monitor and restrict extremist content. As seen in Khan’s case, encrypted communication and online radicalization served as key enablers.
Final Thoughts
The arrest and extradition of Muhammad Shahzeb Khan show the strength of early detection and international collaboration. While the plot was serious and well-planned, law enforcement’s rapid response ensured that no lives were lost.
Still, the threat of religiously motivated violence continues. Vigilance, strong intelligence sharing, and robust legal action will remain essential tools in preventing the next attempt.
As Khan prepares to face the U.S. justice system, the message is clear: those who plot hate-filled attacks will be tracked down and prosecuted—no matter where they are.
