FBI Alleges Man Who Fought for Hamas in October 7 Attack Found Refuge in Louisiana

The FBI recently charged a Louisiana man, Mahmoud Amin Ya’qub al-Muhtadi, with participating in the Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. This brutal assault resulted in nearly 1,200 fatalities and the kidnapping of over 250 individuals, including multiple U.S. citizens.

During this attack, al-Muhtadi allegedly armed himself and joined a group crossing from Gaza into Israel. According to an FBI complaint, he had previously denied any involvement in terrorist activities when he applied for a U.S. visa, which he successfully obtained in 2024. His application claimed he intended to work in car repairs or food services in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

After the attack, the FBI, alongside various Israeli security agencies, tracked down al-Muhtadi through the October 7 task force, initiated earlier this year to investigate the event’s violence. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi remarked on the severity of al-Muhtadi’s actions, highlighting that it marked one of the darkest days for Jewish people since the Holocaust.

Al-Muhtadi’s social media and email communications revealed a long-standing connection with a Hamas-aligned group. The FBI found that he coordinated an armed group to enter Israel on the day of the attack. At around 6:30 a.m. on October 7, he received a call to arms from Hamas officials and allegedly urged his associates to prepare for violence.

This incident underscores broader trends in global security and terrorism. Recent research indicates that extremist groups often use social media to recruit and mobilize individuals across borders. Al-Muhtadi’s case exemplifies how these networks can reach individuals far from their home territories, sparking violent actions in other countries.

Al-Muhtadi’s legal proceedings are ongoing, with court appearances scheduled. It remains uncertain whether he has secured legal representation. This case highlights critical issues in immigration policy and national security as law enforcement agencies continue to scrutinize those who may pose threats to public safety.

For more on international terrorism and its implications, you can check out this in-depth report from the Justice Department.

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