Attacks Linked to Collapsing Extremist Ideologies Surge in America

Domestic violence incidents tied to radical ideologies are on the rise as the global influence of these movements wanes.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 2:50pm

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A series of violent attacks in recent days across the U.S. - including shootings at a university, a synagogue, and a restaurant - have been linked to individuals with ties to extremist ideologies like ISIS. Experts say this surge in domestic violence is a pattern seen historically when authoritarian movements begin to lose power globally, as their followers lash out in desperation. However, the national media has been reluctant to connect these incidents to any broader ideological cause, instead treating them as isolated "incidents."

Why it matters

These attacks highlight the growing threat of domestic violence inspired by collapsing extremist ideologies, even as the government agencies tasked with monitoring and preventing such threats face funding challenges. Acknowledging the ideological roots behind these incidents is crucial for developing effective counter-terrorism strategies and protecting public safety.

The details

In recent days, several violent incidents across the U.S. have been tied to individuals with links to extremist movements. At Old Dominion University, authorities say the shooter, Mohamed Bailor Jalloh, had previously attempted to provide material support to ISIS. In Michigan, a gunman rammed a vehicle into a synagogue before opening fire. In San Jose, Jewish diners were attacked, while in Austin a man wearing "Property of Allah" clothing murdered three people. And in New York City, two radicalized individuals tried to throw explosives into a crowd of demonstrators.

  • On March 10, a gunman opened fire at Old Dominion University, killing one and wounding two before being stopped by ROTC students.
  • On March 11, a vehicle was rammed into a synagogue in Michigan, followed by gunfire.
  • On March 12, Jewish diners were attacked in San Jose, California.

The players

Mohamed Bailor Jalloh

A man who had previously attempted to provide material support to ISIS and was identified as the shooter in the Old Dominion University attack.

Temple Israel

The largest Reform synagogue in Michigan that was targeted in a vehicle ramming and shooting attack.

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What they’re saying

“The truth is that the United States and Israel are winning. Our Gulf allies are standing firm. Iran's strike capabilities have been crushed. Its ability to intimidate the region has been dramatically reduced.”

— Kevin McCullough, Columnist (Townhall.com)

“When authoritarian ideologies begin to lose globally, they often lash out locally. That's not speculation. It's history.”

— Kevin McCullough, Columnist (Townhall.com)

What’s next

Authorities will continue investigating the recent attacks to determine if there are any connections between the incidents and larger extremist networks. The Department of Homeland Security will also likely face scrutiny over its ability to monitor and prevent such threats amid funding challenges.

The takeaway

These violent attacks linked to collapsing extremist ideologies underscore the need for honest, fact-based reporting and policymaking to address the evolving threat of domestic terrorism. Ignoring the ideological roots behind these incidents only emboldens the perpetrators and puts public safety at risk.