Terror Suspects Accused of Throwing Explosives at NYC Protesters

Pennsylvania men charged with ISIS-inspired attack outside Gracie Mansion

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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Two Pennsylvania men, Emir Balat and Ibrahim Kayumi, have been accused of plotting an ISIS-inspired terror attack in New York City. Balat allegedly purchased a fireworks fuse just days before the incident, and the two men are accused of throwing live explosive devices into a protest outside the official residence of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani.

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 explosive devices at a public protest also raises concerns about public safety and the potential for escalating tensions between opposing groups.

The details

According to authorities, Balat purchased a 20-foot roll of consumer safety fuse from a Phantom Fireworks store in Pennsylvania on March 2, just two days after the U.S. and Israel launched strikes on Iran. Five days later, Balat and Kayumi allegedly threw live explosive devices into a protest outside Gracie Mansion, the official residence of the New York City mayor. The devices caused flames and smoke, and police took both men into custody.

  • Balat purchased the fireworks fuse on March 2, 2026.
  • The alleged attack occurred on March 7, 2026, about 30 minutes after a protest outside Gracie Mansion began.

The players

Emir Balat

An 18-year-old Pennsylvania man accused of purchasing a fireworks fuse and throwing explosive devices at protesters in New York City.

Ibrahim Kayumi

A 19-year-old Pennsylvania man accused of assisting Balat in the alleged terror attack in New York City.

Zohran Mamdani

The current mayor of New York City, whose official residence, Gracie Mansion, was the site of the alleged terror attack.

Jessica Tisch

The New York City Police Commissioner who provided details about the incident and the arrests of Balat and Kayumi.

Phantom Fireworks

The Pennsylvania-based fireworks retailer where Balat purchased the safety fuse used in the alleged attack.

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What they’re saying

“The single item purchased was a 20 ft. length of consumer fireworks safety fuse. The total spend was $6.89 including tax.”

— William Weimer, Vice President and General Counsel, Phantom Fireworks (Fox News Digital)

What’s next

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

The takeaway

This incident underscores the ongoing threat of domestic terrorism and the need for vigilance in monitoring potential extremist activity, particularly in the wake of geopolitical events that could inspire such attacks. Law enforcement will likely face continued challenges in preventing such incidents while also balancing the rights of protesters and the safety of the public.