Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi, residing in Oklahoma, faces charges for plotting an ISIS-linked terrorist attack on U.S. Election Day, raising national security alarms.
At a Glance
- Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi allegedly planned a terror attack linked to ISIS for U.S. Election Day.
- Authorities accuse Tawhedi of attempting to support ISIS and illegally possess firearms.
- Tawhedi entered the U.S. on a Special Immigrant Visa and is now on parole pending immigration proceedings.
- The arrest sparks debate on the vetting of Afghan refugees post-U.S. Afghanistan exit.
Arrest and Charges
Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi, aged 27, was apprehended in Oklahoma for allegedly conspiring to conduct a terror attack supporting ISIS on Election Day. Court documents reveal Tawhedi planned to purchase firearms and ammunition for the attack. Accusations also include attempting to provide material support to ISIS, involving various illicit activities to fund and carry out the attack.
Between September 2021 and his arrest, Tawhedi pursued resources to facilitate the plot. This included liquidating family assets and purchasing AK-47 rifles. Investigators monitored his efforts to secure surveillance information on possible targets in Washington, D.C., and areas with lax gun laws. Arrest came after receiving firearms, highlighting the imminent threat.
BREAKING: An Afghan national living in Oklahoma has been charged with conspiring to carry out a terrorist attack on behalf of ISIS on Election Day, according to newly unsealed court documents. https://t.co/bqdb9Y8DPc
— NBC News (@NBCNews) October 8, 2024
Investigation and FBI’s Role
The FBI identified Tawhedi’s intentions through various investigative methods, including the use of confidential sources. Surveillance revealed communication with ISIS affiliates and financial transactions supporting terrorism. Tawhedi’s viewing of ISIS propaganda and cryptocurrency contributions to a designated charity in Syria helped substantiate charges. The FBI praised its own dedication to thwarting this terroristic aspiration.
“The Justice Department foiled the defendant’s plot to acquire semi-automatic weapons and commit a violent attack in the name of ISIS on U.S. soil on Election Day,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland.
The FBI Director stressed the seriousness of the charge, emphasizing the priority of preventing terrorism. As threats remain high, cooperation between agencies continues. Tawhedi, if convicted, faces a potentially long incarceration period of up to 35 years, given the charges lodged against him entail major federal crimes.
BREAKING: An Afghan national living in Oklahoma has been charged with conspiring to carry out a terrorist attack on behalf of ISIS on Election Day, according to newly unsealed court documents. https://t.co/bqdb9Y8DPc
— NBC News (@NBCNews) October 8, 2024
Vetting Concerns and Political Discourse
Tawhedi’s entry to the U.S. in 2021 highlights concerns about vetting processes. He entered on a Special Immigrant Visa, a point of controversy given the strategic withdrawal from Afghanistan left many apprehensive about insufficient background checks for refugees. His arrest rekindles debates on national security and the measures in place to protect American soil.
“This defendant, motivated by ISIS, allegedly conspired to commit a violent attack, on Election Day, here on our homeland,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray.
This case places renewed attention on refugee policy discourse as policymakers and security officials balance humanitarian efforts with stringent national security priorities. Authorities continue to probe surrounding circumstances while affirming their commitment to civil safety and national protection.
Sources:
- Afghan man arrested in alleged US election day attack plot
- Afghan National Arrested for Plotting an Election Day Terrorist Attack in the Name of ISIS