The arrest of Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi for planning a terrorist attack on Election Day has left Americans questioning the safety of their democratic processes and the adequacy of current vetting procedures.
But Joe Biden said that they were vetted! He promised!
At a Glance
- Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi, an Afghan evacuee, charged with plotting Election Day terror attack in the U.S. for ISIS.
- Tawhedi planned to liquidate family assets, move family overseas, and acquire assault rifles for the attack.
- Law enforcement uncovered the plot using a confidential source and arrested him after receiving firearms.
- FBI, Justice Department, and other agencies disrupted the attack, emphasizing the ongoing threat of ISIS.
- Tawhedi is charged with conspiracy and providing material support to ISIS, facing up to 20 years in prison.
Arrest of Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi
Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi, a 27-year-old Afghan national residing in Oklahoma City, was arrested for allegedly plotting an Election Day terrorist attack in the United States on behalf of ISIS. Tawhedi is charged with conspiring and attempting to provide material support to ISIS by acquiring firearms and ammunition in preparation for a violent act. His plan included liquidating family assets, resettling relatives overseas, and aiming to attack large gatherings, intending to perish as a martyr.
The FBI used a confidential source to engage Tawhedi, which led to his arrest shortly after he procured weapons. Arresting authorities highlighted this case as reaffirming the necessity for vigilant oversight and robust vetting processes. His communications with an ISIS affiliate and his participation in pro-ISIS online forums underscore these concerns. Fortunately, the U.S. Justice Department, FBI, and other agencies disrupted the plot before its execution. His leadership in these circles demonstrates the persistent threat ISIS and its supporters pose to national security.
Security Shortcomings
Tawhedi entered the United States on a special immigrant visa, holding parole status pending immigration proceedings. Legal proceedings could see him face up to 20 years for providing material support to ISIS and 15 years for acquiring firearms for terrorism. The prosecuting team includes the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Oklahoma and the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
“As charged, 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.
“We will continue to combat the ongoing threat that ISIS and its supporters pose to America’s national security, and we will identify, investigate, and prosecute the individuals who seek to terrorize the American people. I am deeply grateful to the public servants of the FBI, National Security Division, and U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Oklahoma for their work to disrupt this attack and for the work they do every day to protect our country.”
The case, however, necessitates careful reflection. While law enforcement acted decisively, the broader issue remains: balancing national security requirements with international humanitarian commitments. Highlighting the challenges, FBI Director Christopher Wray remarked, “Terrorism is still the FBI’s number one priority, and we will use every resource to protect the American people.” The FBI has come under pressure as various threats continuously evolve at home and abroad.
Joe Biden said there was nothing to worry about regarding Afghans entering the U.S.
It was another lie.
