Afghan Migrant Sentenced to 15 Years for Plotting Election Day Terror Attack in the U.S.

Image: Jihad Watch

Nineteen-year-old Abdullah Haji Zada has been sentenced to 15 years in a U.S. federal prison for plotting an ISIS-inspired terrorist attack targeting the 2024 U.S. presidential election, the U.S. Department of Justice announced on Wednesday. The Afghan national, who had been living in the United States as a lawful permanent resident, was found guilty of multiple terrorism-related offenses after federal investigators uncovered his plans.

According to court filings, Zada was convicted of knowingly receiving, attempting to receive, and conspiring to obtain a firearm and ammunition with the intent to commit a federal crime of terrorism. U.S. District Judge Scott L. Palk delivered the sentence after reviewing the severity of the charges and the evidence presented by prosecutors.

The investigation revealed that Zada, along with 28-year-old Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi, had taken possession of AK-47-style rifles and 500 rounds of ammunition. Federal authorities stated that the two men acquired these weapons fully aware that they were to be used in a coordinated terrorist attack planned for Election Day in November 2024. Their operation was allegedly being conducted on behalf of ISIS, formally known as the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham, a designated foreign terrorist organization responsible for attacks across the world.

When Zada was first arrested at age 17, he already faced a maximum possible sentence of 15 years in federal prison—a punishment that ultimately materialized—and a potential fine of up to $250,000. His involvement, despite his young age, was described by officials as deliberate, informed, and dangerous.

As part of his plea agreement, Zada consented to deportation to Afghanistan after completing his prison term. He also acknowledged that the removal order would nullify his lawful permanent resident status, permanently barring him from residing in the United States in the future.

(This Article was originally published by Jihad Watch)