Two Teens Arrested for Alleged ISIS-Inspired Bombing in New York City

Authorities say the suspects threw homemade explosives at an anti-Muslim protest outside the mayor's residence.

Mar. 10, 2026 at 2:38pm

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Two 18- and 19-year-old Pennsylvania residents, Emir Balat and Ibrahim Kayumi, were arrested and charged with terrorism-related offenses after allegedly throwing homemade bombs at an anti-Muslim protest outside the home of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani. The incident, which authorities say involved explosives linked to ISIS, left no injuries but raised concerns about the threat of domestic terrorism.

Why it matters

The alleged attack highlights the ongoing challenge of preventing radicalization and homegrown terrorism, especially among young people. It also sparked debate around the role of media coverage in framing such incidents and the complex issues of Islamophobia, free speech, and public safety.

The details

According to police, on Saturday morning Balat and Kayumi traveled from Pennsylvania to New York City and allegedly threw homemade bombs containing triacetone triperoxide (TATP), a volatile explosive associated with ISIS, at a small anti-Muslim protest outside Mayor Mamdani's residence. Footage showed a man yelling "Allahu Akbar" during the incident. The two suspects have been charged with terrorism-related offenses.

  • The incident occurred on Saturday morning.
  • On Monday, New York Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch discussed the investigation at a press conference.

The players

Emir Balat

An 18-year-old Pennsylvania resident who was arrested and charged with terrorism-related offenses for allegedly throwing homemade bombs at an anti-Muslim protest in New York City.

Ibrahim Kayumi

A 19-year-old Pennsylvania resident who was arrested and charged with terrorism-related offenses for allegedly throwing homemade bombs at an anti-Muslim protest in New York City.

Zohran Mamdani

The Democratic mayor of New York City, whose residence was the target of the alleged bombing attack.

Jessica Tisch

The New York Police Commissioner who discussed the investigation into the bombing incident at a press conference.

Jake Lang

A right-wing activist who organized the anti-Muslim protest that was targeted in the alleged bombing attack.

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What they’re saying

“The incident was being investigated as 'an act of ISIS-inspired terrorism.'”

— Jessica Tisch, New York Police Commissioner

What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to allow the suspects, Emir Balat and Ibrahim Kayumi, to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This alleged bombing attempt underscores the ongoing threat of homegrown terrorism and the need for vigilance in preventing radicalization, especially among young people. It also highlights the complex issues around media coverage, Islamophobia, and balancing public safety with civil liberties.