NYC Mayor Condemns Alleged ISIS-Inspired Bomb Attack Outside Gracie Mansion

Mamdani calls actions of two accused teens a "heinous act of terrorism" but stops short of addressing radical Islam

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has condemned the alleged ISIS-inspired actions of two teenagers who are accused of trying to detonate homemade bombs outside Gracie Mansion, the mayor's official residence. Mamdani called the incident a "heinous act of terrorism" but did not directly address the suspects' reported ties to radical Islam.

Why it matters

The mayor's response highlights the ongoing challenges of addressing terrorism and extremism, particularly when the alleged perpetrators have ties to radical Islamic ideologies. Mamdani, the city's first Muslim mayor, faces pressure to take a strong stance against such threats while also avoiding rhetoric that could further inflame tensions.

The details

According to the criminal complaint, Emir Balat and Ibrahim Kayumi, both teenagers, told police they carried out the attack because of their allegiance to ISIS. Balat allegedly said he hoped the death toll would surpass that of the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing. The two were charged with federal crimes including use of a weapon of mass destruction.

  • The incident occurred on Saturday outside Gracie Mansion during a demonstration and counter-protest.
  • Mamdani issued his statement condemning the attack on March 9, 2026.

The players

Zohran Mamdani

The mayor of New York City, who is the city's first Muslim mayor.

Emir Balat

One of the two teenagers charged with the alleged ISIS-inspired bomb attack outside Gracie Mansion.

Ibrahim Kayumi

One of the two teenagers charged with the alleged ISIS-inspired bomb attack outside Gracie Mansion.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Emir Balat and Ibrahim Kayumi have been charged with committing a heinous act of terrorism and proclaiming their allegiance to ISIS. They should be held fully accountable for their actions. We will continue to keep New Yorkers safe. We will not tolerate terrorism or violence in our city.”

— Zohran Mamdani, Mayor of New York City

What’s next

The judge will decide on whether to allow Balat and Kayumi to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the ongoing threat of homegrown terrorism and the challenges mayors face in addressing extremism, especially when it involves individuals with ties to radical Islamic ideologies. Mayor Mamdani's response highlights the need for a nuanced approach that condemns violence while also avoiding rhetoric that could further inflame tensions within the community.