Suspects in NYC Mayor's Home IED Attack Wanted 'Bigger' Than Boston Bombing

Two Pennsylvania men charged with terrorism after explosives found at protest near Gracie Mansion

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Two men have been arrested and charged with federal terrorism offenses after they allegedly brought improvised explosive devices to a protest outside Gracie Mansion in New York City. The suspects, Emir Balat and Ibrahim Kayumi, are accused of pledging allegiance to ISIS and saying they wanted to carry out an attack 'bigger than the Boston Marathon bombing'.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing threat of domestic terrorism and the challenges law enforcement faces in preventing such attacks. The use of homemade explosives near the mayor's residence also raises concerns about the security of public officials and the need for vigilance against extremist groups.

The details

According to the federal complaint, the two devices contained the volatile substance TATP and were designed to 'injure, maim or worse.' One device was ignited and deployed at protesters, while the other was detonated nearby. A third suspected IED was found in the suspects' car, prompting an evacuation of the area. The suspects were arrested and charged with attempting to provide material support to ISIS, use of a weapon of mass destruction, and other offenses.

  • The incident occurred on March 7, 2026 outside Gracie Mansion in New York City.
  • The suspects were arrested and charged on March 10, 2026.

The players

Emir Balat

One of the two suspects charged in the federal terrorism case. Balat is from Langhorne, Pennsylvania.

Ibrahim Kayumi

The second suspect charged in the federal terrorism case. Kayumi is from Newton, Pennsylvania.

Jessica Tisch

New York Police Commissioner who provided details about the incident and the suspects' alleged actions.

Zohran Mamdani

The mayor of New York City, who condemned the attack as an act of terrorism and praised the police response.

Jack Lang

A far-right, anti-immigrant provocateur who organized the anti-Muslim protest outside Gracie Mansion that was the target of the alleged attack.

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What they’re saying

“They're suspected of coming here to commit an act of terrorism. Let me say this plainly: Anyone who comes to New York City to bring violence to our streets will be held accountable in accordance with the law.”

— Zohran Mamdani, Mayor of New York City (wondradio.com)

“These were not hoax devices or smoke bombs. They were improvised explosive devices.”

— Jessica Tisch, New York Police Commissioner (wondradio.com)

“Kayumi responded in part and as captured on NYPD body-worn camera footage, 'ISIS.'”

— Ibrahim Kayumi (wondradio.com)

“Balat also allegedly told police that 'they wanted to carry out an attack bigger than the Boston Marathon bombing, which Balat noted caused only 'three deaths.'”

— Emir Balat (wondradio.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Emir Balat and Ibrahim Kayumi out on bail.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the ongoing threat of domestic terrorism and the need for vigilance against extremist groups seeking to carry out attacks in major cities like New York. It also highlights the challenges law enforcement faces in preventing such incidents and protecting public officials and citizens.