Security tightened at GMU after student charged in alleged terror plot targeting NYC
Federal authorities have arrested an 18-year-old George Mason University student accused of plotting an attack targeting the Israeli Consulate and Jewish communities in New York City.
Abdullah Hassan, a freshman majoring in information technology, was apprehended by FBI agents on Tuesday in Falls Church, Virginia.
According to court documents, Hassan, a national of Egypt currently living in the United States, is in removal proceedings with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Featured
GMU student arrested by FBI, accused of promoting violence against Jews
The FBI has arrested Abdullah Ezzeldin Taha Mohamed Hassan, a George Mason University student, on federal charges.
The FBI’s investigation began on May 4 after Fairfax County Police received an anonymous tip about Hassan allegedly engaging in "radical and terrorist-leaning behavior" on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter.
Authorities believe Hassan operated several pro-ISIS and al-Qaeda accounts that promoted violence against Jewish communities.
During conversations with an undercover FBI informant, Hassan allegedly referred to New York City as a "goldmine of targets" and outlined plans to attack the Israeli Consulate in Manhattan.
In a statement, George Mason University President Gregory Washington confirmed that Hassan is banned from campus and that the university has increased security measures in response to the arrest.
"We remain committed to the safety and well-being of our community," Washington said.
Hassan faces federal charges in connection with the alleged plot.