Two men charged with bringing explosives to NYC protest, citing ISIS inspiration

Emir Balat and Ibrahim Kayumi were arrested after allegedly throwing homemade devices at a counterprotest against an anti-Islamic demonstration

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Two men, Emir Balat and Ibrahim Kayumi, were arrested and charged with attempting to provide material support to a terrorist organization and using a weapon of mass destruction after they allegedly brought homemade explosive devices to a protest outside New York City's mayoral mansion. The men said they were inspired by the Islamic State extremist group.

Why it matters

This incident highlights ongoing concerns about domestic terrorism and the threat of extremist groups like ISIS inspiring attacks within the United States. It also raises questions about security measures at public demonstrations and the ability of law enforcement to respond to evolving threats.

The details

According to the complaint, Balat and Kayumi, both Pennsylvania residents, traveled to New York City and allegedly threw jar-sized devices containing the explosive TATP into a crowd of counterprotesters. The devices did not explode. Balat allegedly told police that he had pledged allegiance to ISIS, while Kayumi said he was affiliated with the group. A search of their vehicle uncovered materials that could be used to build explosives.

  • The incident occurred on Saturday, March 9, 2026 during a protest and counterprotest outside New York City's Gracie Mansion.
  • Balat and Kayumi were arraigned on Monday, March 11, 2026.

The players

Emir Balat

An 18-year-old Pennsylvania resident who was charged with attempting to provide material support to a terrorist organization and using a weapon of mass destruction.

Ibrahim Kayumi

A 19-year-old Pennsylvania resident who was charged with attempting to provide material support to a terrorist organization and using a weapon of mass destruction.

Jake Lang

A far-right activist and critic of New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani who organized the anti-Islamic demonstration that drew the counterprotest.

Zohran Mamdani

The Democratic mayor of New York City and the first Muslim to hold the office.

Jessica Tisch

The New York Police Commissioner.

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What they’re saying

“We must not allow ISIS's poisonous, anti-American ideology to threaten this nation.”

— Pam Bondi, U.S. Attorney General (Twitter)

“Balat and Kayumi traveled from Pennsylvania and attempted to bring violence to New York City.”

— Zohran Mamdani, Mayor of New York City (Press conference)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Balat and Kayumi to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the ongoing threat of domestic terrorism and the need for vigilance in securing public events, as well as the importance of addressing the spread of extremist ideologies that can inspire such attacks.