Federal prosecutors charged Emir Balat and Ibrahim Kayumi with attempting to aid the Islamic State after a homemade explosive was hurled near Gracie Mansion during a weekend protest.
Authorities say one device tested positive for TATP, a highly volatile explosive tied to past terrorist attacks, and that both suspects made statements referencing ISIS after their arrest.
🚨🤬This is 18-year-old Amir Balat, who is seen yelling “Allahu Akbar” while throwing an explosive device packed with nuts, bolts, and screws—designed to maim or injure Jake Lang and other Crusaders—during a protest in front of Gracie Mansion, Zohran Mamdani’s home.🤬🚨
These… pic.twitter.com/orTMaXaEdo
— 🇺🇸 𝓐𝓟𝓡𝓘𝓛 𝓢𝓟𝓐𝓡𝓚𝓢 🇺🇸 (@AprilSpark1890) March 8, 2026
Allegations and evidence
The criminal complaint says Balat allegedly told investigators he wanted to carry out an attack “bigger than the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing,” and that he wrote a pledge of allegiance to the Islamic State on a piece of paper.
Prosecutors added that Kayumi admitted watching ISIS propaganda and said he was partly inspired by it; one device began emitting smoke as officers moved in and arrested two men.
Where and when
One improvised explosive was thrown outside Gracie Mansion, the mayor’s official residence, as the rally unfolded; a third device found in a nearby vehicle was later determined not to contain explosive material.
The explosives did not detonate and no injuries were reported; officials said this marks the first time in nine years that an I.E.D. has been used in an attack in New York City.
Public response
Mayor Zohran Mamdani condemned the protest as “vile” and “rooted in white supremacy,” but said he would not waver in his belief that it should be allowed to happen.
New York Police Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch and U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton were scheduled to address the charges at a news conference, and Balat is expected to be arraigned Monday afternoon.
Rally details and law enforcement action
The rally, organized by social media personality Jake Lang and billed as a “Stop the Islamic Takeover of New York City” protest, included roughly 20 supporters and about 100 counterprotesters.
Officials praised Assistant Chief Aaron Edwards and Sgt. Luis Navarro for running toward the suspect as the device was thrown; their quick action prevented any reported injuries and ensured the suspects were taken into custody.
