New York City Averted ISIS-Inspired Attack After Bomb Malfunction
Synopsis
New York City narrowly avoided a significant terrorist disaster when an ISIS-linked bomb failed to detonate, raising serious concerns about security amid ongoing tensions. The incident led to arrests and a robust investigation into the motives behind the attack.
Key Takeaways
New York City narrowly avoided a major **terrorist attack** linked to ISIS.
The explosives used were made from **TATP**, a potent substance.
Two suspects were arrested during the incident.
The attack occurred amid heightened security due to international tensions.
City officials condemned the actions and are investigating the motives behind the attack.
New York, March 9 (NationPress) — New York City narrowly avoided a terrorist attack linked to the Islamic State when an explosive device failed to detonate, as confirmed by law enforcement officials.
According to Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, both this bomb and another improvised explosive discovered during the incident were crafted using TATP, a highly volatile substance known as the "Mother of Satan" due to its potency and ease of production. This chemical has been involved in various global terrorist acts, including the recent bombings near the Red Fort in New Delhi.
The incident unfolded while the city and the nation were on heightened alert due to escalating tensions related to the Iran conflict.
Two suspects, Emir Balat and Ibrahim Nikk Khayumi, were apprehended after Balat threw the bomb, which emitted smoke but failed to fully ignite. Both individuals traveled from Pennsylvania to execute their plan.
Federal charges against the suspects were anticipated to be filed later that day.
Authorities discovered the two explosive devices during a confrontation with Balat, who leaped over a barricade towards an "anti-Islamisation" protest. A police robot later secured a third device from a car nearby.
The attack coincided with a right-wing protest titled "Stop the Islamic Takeover of New York City" occurring near the Mayor's official residence, which was met with a counter-protest.
Initially, some Democratic leaders attempted to attribute the bombing to the right-wing group led by agitator Jack Lang. However, Tisch stated that the investigation into the attack is being treated as "ISIS-inspired terrorism".
Mayor Zohran Mamdani emphasized that had the explosives detonated, they could have inflicted severe harm, as they were designed to "injure, maim, or worse". He directed criticism towards the anti-Islamisation protesters, describing their demonstration as "vile and rooted in white supremacy", although he maintained that such protests should be permitted.
Mamdani previously condemned Lang's group for being "rooted in bigotry and racism", labeling their actions as contradictory to the values of New York City.
Lang, known for his extreme right-wing views, was previously convicted for his role in the 2021 Capitol attack and received a pardon from Donald Trump after his 2024 re-election.
In the aftermath, Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal attributed the explosive device to "White Christian Nationalists", diverting blame from the ISIS-affiliated assailants. As the Mayor spoke, Lang vocally denied the involvement of far-right agitators in the bombing.
The last notable bomb attempt in the city occurred in 2017 when Akayed Ullah, a Bangladeshi immigrant, detonated a bomb in the subway system, resulting in his injury and subsequent life sentence.
Point of View
Particularly from extremist groups. It raises critical questions about security and the challenges law enforcement faces in preventing such incidents. As investigations proceed, understanding the motivations and affiliations of the suspects is essential for national safety.
NationPress
10 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in New York City on March 9?
An ISIS-linked terrorist attack was narrowly avoided when a bomb failed to explode, leading to the arrest of two suspects.
Who were the suspects involved in the attack?
The suspects are Emir Balat and Ibrahim Nikk Khayumi, who traveled from Pennsylvania to carry out the attack.
What kind of explosives were used?
The explosives were made using TATP, a highly volatile substance known for its power and ease of production.
What was the reaction of city officials?
Mayor Zohran Mamdani condemned the incident and criticized the anti-Islamisation protest, while the investigation is being treated as ISIS-inspired terrorism.
Is there a history of bomb attempts in New York City?
Yes, the last notable bomb attempt occurred in 2017, involving a Bangladeshi immigrant who detonated a bomb in the subway.
