Iraqi Militia Commander Charged With Terror Attacks Plot
An Iraqi militia commander has appeared in US federal court. He faces six terrorism charges.
His name is Mohammad al-Saadi. He leads Kataib Hezbollah which is an Iraqi militia linked to Iran.
The US Justice Department says he was involved in nearly 20 terror attacks and attempted attacks. These targeted the US, Europe and Canada.
He is accused of planning attacks on New York City. He also allegedly led attacks in Europe as part of an Iranian retaliation campaign.
Prosecutors say the attacks were carried out under a different group name to hide the link. Al-Saadi was held without bail in New York.
He was reportedly arrested in Turkey before being moved to US custody. In the UK violence linked to al-Saadi targeted Jewish community centres, charities and synagogues. European countries have raised concern about these attacks.
Key Terms 3
- Kataib Hezbollah An Iraqi armed group with close ties to Iran
- Retaliation campaign A series of attacks carried out as revenge for something
- Held without bail Kept in jail with no option to pay for release