The FBI has apprehended an individual in Louisiana, accused of being involved in the attack on Israel by Hamas on October 7, 2023.
An affidavit charges Mahmoud Amin Ya-qub Al-Muhtadi, who lives in Lafayette, Louisiana, with breaching federal law. It alleges that he provided, attempted to provide, or conspired to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization through his purported involvement in the October 7 Hamas-led assault on Israel. Additionally, he faces accusations of visa fraud and the misuse of permits and other documents.
Al-Muhtadi is scheduled to appear in court for the first time on Friday morning, as reported by The New York Times.
The affidavit describes Al-Muhtadi as an operative for the Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine’s military wing, the National Resistance Brigades, also known as the ‘Martyr Umar al-Qasim Forces.’ This group, based in Gaza, took part in the Hamas-coordinated terrorist operation against Israel on October 7, 2023. The affidavit states that evidence indicates Al-Muhtadi was informed of the Hamas invasion that morning, armed himself, rallied others, and crossed into Israel intending to support the terrorist attack.
According to the affidavit, Al-Muhtadi’s phone was traced to a cell tower near Kibbutz Kfar Aza in Israel, the site of a gruesome massacre carried out by Hamas and its affiliates. Furthermore, the affidavit claims that Al-Muhtadi provided false information on his U.S. Visa application concerning his ties to a paramilitary organization, his connection to Hamas, his involvement in a terrorist attack, and his military training.
“Evidence shows that Al-Muhtadi’s phone utilized a cell tower located near Kibbutz Kfar Aza in Israel, the location of a horrifying massacre by Hamas and its supporters,” the affidavit continued. “Evidence further shows that Al-Muhtadi provided false information in his U.S. Visa application relating to his involvement with a paramilitary organization, connection to Hamas, participation in a terrorist attack, and military training.”
“As a result of that false application, Al-Muhtadi was able to obtain permission to travel to the United States and obtain Legal Permanent Resident status. Al-Muhtadi is currently residing and working in Lafeyette, Louisiana,” it added.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
