A 23-year-old American citizen, Karrem Nasr, has been arrested in Kenya and charged with attempting to aid the al-Shabaab terrorist group.
He allegedly expressed support for al-Shabaab, moved to Egypt, and planned to join the group for training and terror attacks.
Nasr’s motivation was reportedly influenced by Hamas’ attack on Israel.
U.S. attorney Damian Williams, wrote, “As alleged, Karrem Nasr, motivated by the heinous terrorist attack perpetrated by Hamas on October 7, devoted himself to waging violent jihad against America and its allies. Nasr, a citizen of this country, traveled from Egypt to Kenya bent on joining and training with al Shabaab so that he could execute his jihadist mission of death and destruction.”
“Nasr was prepared to kill and be killed to support the jihadist cause, and in his own words, he described America as ‘evil’ and the ‘head of the snake,’” continued the statement.
If convicted, he could face up to 20 years in prison.
NYPD Commissioner Edward A. Caban, said, “Instead of embracing all that the United States had to offer him, Mr. Nasr allegedly moved abroad and committed himself to supporting a foreign terrorist organization. The provision of support to such a group – particularly by an American citizen – is a heinous threat to our entire country and way of life.”
The case highlights the ongoing threat of terrorism and the challenges faced by the U.S. and Europe in addressing such threats.
