Federal authorities have charged an Iraqi commander affiliated with an Iranian-backed militia with plotting attacks against multiple Jewish institutions across the United States, Canada, and Europe, including a synagogue in Manhattan. Mohammad Baqer Saad Dawood al-Saadi, 32, allegedly told an FBI informant in March that he sought to retaliate against a New York synagogue for its support of Israel by orchestrating an attack. Additional potential targets included locations in Los Angeles and Scottsdale, Arizona.

According to federal prosecutors, al-Saadi arranged the plot by communicating with an undercover agent posing as a member of a Mexican cartel willing to carry out the assault. He reportedly provided the agent with maps and photographs of the intended target and made payments using cryptocurrency. The informant played a crucial role in connecting al-Saadi with the undercover operative.

Al-Saadi was detained recently in Turkey and subsequently transferred to U.S. custody. He appeared before a federal court in Manhattan last week to face charges related to the conspiracy. U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton condemned the alleged scheme, stating that al-Saadi “attempted to disrupt American society through intimidation and violence.”

Details regarding the scope of the planned attacks or whether other individuals were involved have not been disclosed. The case underscores ongoing concerns about threats targeting religious and ethnic communities in the United States and abroad. Investigations remain ongoing.