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Explosive devices thrown near NYC mayor’s residence investigated as ISIS-inspired terrorism
U.S. federal authorities are investigating an attempted bombing outside the official residence of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani after two improvised explosive devices were thrown during a protest, an incident officials say was inspired by the Islamic State group.
2 min read
By Aurax Radio — Updated March 9, 2026
File Photo:Gracie Mansion
Zohran Mamdani, the mayor of New York City, became the focus of a major federal investigation after improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were thrown during a protest near his official residence, Gracie Mansion.
Authorities say the devices were hurled during duelling demonstrations outside the mansion on the Upper East Side over the weekend. The incident is now being investigated as ISIS-inspired terrorism, according to the New York Police Department and federal officials.
Devices capable of causing serious harm
Devices capable of causing serious harm
Police said at least two explosive devices were thrown during the confrontation between a small anti-Islam protest and a much larger group of counter-protesters.
One device — described as a jar packed with screws, nuts and bolts and fitted with a fuse — landed near police barriers but extinguished before detonating. Investigators say it could have caused serious injury or death if it had exploded fully.
A second device also failed to detonate, and bomb-squad officers later discovered another suspicious item inside a nearby vehicle linked to the suspects.
Experts examining the devices found one contained triacetone triperoxide (TATP) — a volatile homemade explosive sometimes referred to as the “mother of Satan” and used in past terrorist attacks.
Incident occurred during anti-Islam protest
Incident occurred during anti-Islam protest
The explosives were thrown amid a confrontation between demonstrators outside the mayor’s residence.
The protest had been organized by a far-right activist opposing Muslim public prayer in the city, drawing about 20 participants, while roughly 125 counter-protesters gathered nearby.
Tensions escalated after pepper spray was reportedly used during clashes between the two groups before the explosive device was thrown.
Mayor Mamdani — who became New York City’s first Muslim mayor after his election in 2025 — was not at home when the incident occurred.
Officials condemn violence
Officials condemn violence
Mamdani condemned the attack and the hateful rhetoric surrounding the protest, calling the use of explosives “reprehensible.”
Police officials said the investigation is continuing and that authorities have found no evidence linking the attack to broader international conflicts at this stage.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul and city officials also denounced the incident while emphasizing that peaceful protest remains protected under the law.
Officers chase Emir Balat who brought explosives to the protest.
Two suspects arrested
Two suspects arrested
Police arrested two Pennsylvania men at the scene — 18-year-old Emir Balat and 19-year-old Ibrahim Kayumi — who now face potential federal terrorism charges.
According to a criminal complaint, Kayumi told officers during his arrest that “ISIS” motivated his actions. Investigators say Balat also admitted pledging allegiance to the extremist group and claimed ties to it.
Both suspects are accused of attempting to provide material support to a terrorist organization and using an explosive weapon. Federal prosecutors and the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force are assisting the investigation.
Image of the device thrown
Federal investigation continues
Federal investigation continues
The FBI and other federal agencies are working with the NYPD to determine whether additional suspects or devices may be involved and to examine the materials used in the explosives.
While no injuries were reported, authorities say the incident underscores the continued threat of online extremist radicalization and improvised explosives, particularly when volatile political demonstrations escalate into violence.
Sources: LA Times, NBC News, Al Jazeera, BBC News, AP News
Sources: LA Times, NBC News, Al Jazeera, BBC News, AP News
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