Alleged Hamas Conspirator Pleads Not Guilty to Terror Attack Charges
Mahmoud Amin Ya’qub al-Muhtadi, a 33-year-old man accused of participating in Hamas’ October 7, 2023, terrorist attack in Israel, has pleaded not guilty to two counts of conspiracy to provide material support to a terror organization resulting in death and fraud and misuse of visa permits. Al-Muhtadi appeared in federal court in Louisiana, where he was arraigned and informed of the charges against him.
According to court documents, al-Muhtadi is accused of being a member of the National Resistance Brigades, the military wing of the Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine, a paramilitary group that has fought alongside Hamas and participated in the 2023 attack. Prosecutors claim that he coordinated a group of armed fighters to cross into Israel after hearing about Hamas’ attack, and that he sent messages asking for ammunition and a bulletproof vest for another man.
Visa Application and Alleged Lies
Al-Muhtadi submitted a U.S. visa application in June 2024, in which he denied being a member or representative of a terror organization, having any skills or training, including firearm usage, and ever engaging in terrorist activities. However, prosecutors allege that these statements were false, and that al-Muhtadi had indeed been involved with terrorist activities.
The prosecution has noted that the case is complex, involving classified documents litigation, and will therefore require certain classified information protections under the Patriot Act. They plan to propose a protective order governing discovery in the case.
Detention and Potential Penalties
Al-Muhtadi’s attorney waived his right to a detention hearing, and the judge issued an order for detention pending trial. The maximum penalty for the first count is life in prison, while the maximum penalty for the second count is 10 years. Deportation to Israel is also a possible penalty in this case.
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