Two Indicted Over Alleged Attempted Attack at NYC Protest

Authorities say the suspects were inspired by ISIS ideology and planned to detonate explosives at a demonstration near the mayor's residence.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Attorney General Pam Bondi announced that the Justice Department has indicted two individuals, Emir Balat and Ibrahim Kayumi, for an alleged attempted terrorist attack on a protest and counter-protest near Gracie Mansion, the residence of New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani. The pair is accused of attempting to detonate two explosive devices at the demonstration, with one device thrown toward protesters and another near police officers. Balat and Kayumi allegedly referenced the terrorist group ISIS during their detention.

Why it matters

The alleged attempted attack highlights ongoing concerns about domestic terrorism and the threat of extremist ideologies, particularly those inspired by groups like ISIS, infiltrating local communities. The incident also raises questions about security measures and the ability of law enforcement to respond quickly to such threats, especially in the vicinity of high-profile government buildings and residences.

The details

According to the criminal complaint, Balat threw the first explosive device toward a group of protesters at a 'Stop the Islamic Takeover of New York City' demonstration and counter-protestors at a 'Run Nazis Out of New York City' demonstration. Balat then allegedly threw the second explosive near NYPD officers who were on the scene. The indictment stated that Balat 'stated that they wanted to carry out an attack bigger than the Boston Marathon bombing'.

  • The alleged attempted attack occurred on Saturday, March 9, 2026 near Gracie Mansion in New York City.
  • Balat and Kayumi were arrested by NYPD officers at the scene.

The players

Pam Bondi

The Attorney General who announced the indictments of Balat and Kayumi.

Emir Balat

One of the two individuals indicted for the alleged attempted attack, accused of throwing explosive devices toward protesters and police.

Ibrahim Kayumi

The second individual indicted for the alleged attempted attack, accused of involvement alongside Balat.

Zohran Mamdani

The mayor of New York City, whose residence at Gracie Mansion was the site of the alleged attempted attack.

New York Police Department (NYPD)

The law enforcement agency that arrested Balat and Kayumi at the scene of the alleged attempted attack.

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What they’re saying

“We have indicted the two alleged ISIS-inspired terrorists who attempted to bomb a protest in New York City. We will not allow ISIS's poisonous, anti-American ideology to threaten this nation. Our law enforcement officers will remain vigilant.”

— Pam Bondi, Attorney General (X)

“Violence at a protest is never acceptable. The attempt to use an explosive device and hurt others is not only criminal, it is reprehensible and the antithesis of who we are.”

— Zohran Mamdani, Mayor of New York City (X)

“Our officers ran toward danger without hesitation, demonstrating once again the courage and dedication it takes to protect this city every single day.”

— Zohran Mamdani, Mayor of New York City (X)

What’s next

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

The takeaway

This alleged attempted attack underscores the ongoing threat of domestic terrorism and the need for vigilance from law enforcement and public officials to protect communities from extremist ideologies and violence, even in the vicinity of high-profile government buildings and residences.