An Iraqi national and senior commander in an Iranian-backed militia has been arrested and charged with orchestrating a plot to attack Jewish institutions in New York, Los Angeles, and Scottsdale, Arizona, as part of a broader campaign of retaliation tied to U.S. and Israeli actions in the Middle East.
Federal prosecutors unsealed a criminal complaint on May 15, 2026, accusing Mohammad Baqer Saad Dawood Al-Saadi, 32, of providing material support to the U.S.-designated foreign terrorist organizations Kata’ib Hizballah and Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. The charges also include conspiring to bomb a place of public use and attempting to destroy property by fire or explosives. Al-Saadi, described as a commander for the militia with close ties to the late Qasem Soleimani, was arrested overseas, transferred to U.S. custody, and appeared before a federal magistrate in Manhattan, where he was ordered detained pending trial.
Iraqi National Charged in Foiled Plot Targeting Jewish Institutions Including Scottsdale Center
According to court documents, Al-Saadi communicated with an undercover law enforcement officer in early April 2026, providing maps, photographs, and detailed instructions for attacks on a prominent New York City synagogue, as well as Jewish centers in Los Angeles and Scottsdale. He discussed using improvised explosive devices or setting the targets ablaze, suggesting the attacks could be carried out simultaneously. Al-Saadi allegedly offered cryptocurrency payments for the operation and framed the plot as part of ongoing efforts to strike U.S. and Israeli interests.
The foiled plot comes amid allegations that Al-Saadi directed or coordinated nearly 20 terrorist attacks and attempts across Europe, Canada, and the United States since late February 2026. These included bombings and arsons claimed by a Kata’ib Hizballah-affiliated group, as well as stabbings targeting Jewish men in London. Prosecutors link the activities to retaliation for U.S. strikes and support for Israel during heightened regional conflict.
Al-Saadi’s arrest was announced jointly by the Department of Justice and the FBI. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche stated that the operation disrupted a serious threat to national security and Jewish communities. FBI Director Kash Patel described Al-Saadi as a high-value target responsible for directing attacks on American and Israeli interests worldwide.
Court records indicate that security measures were heightened at the targeted New York synagogue following the communications. No attacks occurred, and investigators emphasized the role of undercover operations in preventing harm.
The case underscores ongoing concerns about Iranian proxy networks extending operations into the United States. Al-Saadi faces up to life in prison on the most serious charges if convicted. His next court appearance is scheduled for June 29, 2026.