NYC Man Arrested in Plot to Firebomb Pro-Palestinian Activist's Home

Authorities say Alexander Heifler, 26, planned to use Molotov cocktails in attack on Nerdeen Kiswani's residence.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 1:26am

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New York City authorities have arrested Alexander Heifler, 26, in connection with a plot to firebomb the home of Nerdeen Kiswani, a prominent Palestinian activist and co-founder of Within Our Lifetime. Heifler, identified as a member of the JDL 613 Brotherhood, allegedly discussed the plot with an undercover NYPD detective and assembled the devices at his home in Hoboken, New Jersey.

Why it matters

This incident highlights a disturbing trend of escalating threats and potential violence targeting individuals involved in political activism. The case underscores a broader concern about the increasing polarization of political discourse and the potential for it to spill over into violence.

The details

According to officials, Heifler planned to use Molotov cocktails in the attack and intended to flee to Israel after the incident. Kiswani, who frequently leads protests against Israel and the war in Gaza, was informed of the threat by the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force. She stated the plot wouldn't deter her activism, despite acknowledging the constant possibility of such threats.

  • Heifter allegedly discussed the plot with an undercover NYPD detective over several weeks.
  • Heifter reportedly assembled the Molotov cocktails at his home in Hoboken, New Jersey.

The players

Alexander Heifler

A 26-year-old man arrested in connection with the plot to firebomb Nerdeen Kiswani's home. Heifler is identified as a member of the JDL 613 Brotherhood, a New Jersey-based group describing itself as 'Jewish warriors'.

Nerdeen Kiswani

A prominent Palestinian activist and co-founder of Within Our Lifetime, a pro-Palestinian activist group based in New York City. Kiswani frequently leads protests against Israel and the war in Gaza.

JDL 613 Brotherhood

A New Jersey-based group that identifies as 'Jewish warriors' fighting against antisemitism. The group was inspired by the original Jewish Defense League, which was linked to numerous bombings and attempted assassinations in the 1970s and 1980s.

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What they’re saying

“We will not tolerate violent extremism in our city. No one should face violence for their political beliefs or their advocacy.”

— Zohran Mamdani, New York City Mayor

“The plot wouldn't deter my activism, despite acknowledging the constant possibility of such threats.”

— Nerdeen Kiswani

What’s next

Heifler is charged with unlawfully making and possessing firearms, each carrying a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. The case will proceed through the criminal justice system.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the need for continued vigilance against the rise of political extremism and the importance of safeguarding the rights of individuals to express their beliefs without fear of violence. Proactive law enforcement efforts and community-based initiatives to address the root causes of extremism will be crucial in preventing future such incidents.