Shackled terror suspects flash ISIS salute after Gracie Mansion attack

Two young men arrested for throwing explosive device near NYC mayor's residence

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Two men, Emir Balat and Ibrahim Kayumi, were arrested for throwing a homemade 'Mother of Satan' bomb at protesters outside New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani's residence. As Balat was led away in shackles, he defiantly flashed the ISIS salute while grinning at the press.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the ongoing threat of domestic terrorism and the radicalization of young people, even in affluent suburban communities. It also raises concerns about security around high-profile government officials and the potential for attacks on peaceful protesters.

The details

Balat, 18, and Kayumi, 19, were arrested on Saturday after allegedly throwing the explosive device near Gracie Mansion, the official residence of the New York City mayor. As Balat was being led away by police and an FBI agent, he held up his right index finger - a known ISIS salute - and grinned at the press. The officers quickly slapped down his hand. Balat and Kayumi come from relatively wealthy suburban backgrounds, further highlighting the complex issue of domestic radicalization.

  • Balat and Kayumi were arrested on Saturday, March 9, 2026.
  • As Balat was being led away from the police precinct on Monday, March 11, 2026, he flashed the ISIS salute.

The players

Emir Balat

An 18-year-old man who was arrested for throwing an explosive device near Gracie Mansion and defiantly flashed an ISIS salute while being led away in shackles.

Ibrahim Kayumi

A 19-year-old man who was arrested along with Balat for the Gracie Mansion attack.

Zohran Mamdani

The current mayor of New York City, whose official residence at Gracie Mansion was the target of the alleged attack.

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What they’re saying

“We must remain vigilant against the threat of domestic terrorism and the radicalization of our youth, even in our own communities.”

— Mayor Zohran Mamdani

What’s next

Prosecutors are expected to file formal charges against Balat and Kayumi in the coming days, and the investigation into the source of the explosive device and any potential co-conspirators is ongoing.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the need for continued efforts to combat domestic extremism and address the complex factors that can lead to the radicalization of young people, even in seemingly affluent and stable communities.