FBI Disrupts Alleged New Year’s Eve Attack; Man Charged with Attempting to Provide Material Support to ISIS

Washington, D.C.; January 3rd, 2026.

The UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE, through its OFFICE OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS, announced that the FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION (FBI) disrupted an alleged planned attack tied to New Year’s Eve activities, resulting in federal charges against a man accused of attempting to provide material support to the foreign terrorist organization known as ISIS.

According to the DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE, the defendant has been formally charged with attempting to provide material support or resources to ISIS, a designated foreign terrorist organization under United States law. The charge follows an FBI-led investigation that authorities state prevented the alleged attack from being carried out, thereby averting potential loss of life and harm to the public.

The DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE stated that the investigation was conducted under federal counterterrorism statutes, which prohibit knowingly providing, attempting to provide, or conspiring to provide material support or resources to designated terrorist organizations. Material support, as defined by federal law, includes services, personnel, training, funding, or other tangible or intangible assistance intended to further terrorist activity.

According to the FBI, the investigation identified actions by the defendant that federal authorities allege demonstrated intent to assist ISIS. While the Department did not disclose operational details that could compromise ongoing investigative methods or future cases, officials confirmed that the disruption occurred before any attack could be executed. The DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE emphasized that early detection and intervention remain central to federal counterterrorism strategy.

The FBI stated that the case reflects continued vigilance by federal law enforcement in monitoring and responding to terrorism-related threats within the United States. Authorities noted that individuals inspired by or attempting to support foreign terrorist organizations remain a persistent concern, particularly during high-visibility dates and public events such as New Year’s Eve celebrations, when large crowds are common.

According to the DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE, the charges were filed in federal court, and the defendant will proceed through the judicial process as required by law. The Department emphasized that the filing of criminal charges represents an allegation, and that the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Federal officials stated that the FBI’s actions in this case were part of a broader effort to identify, investigate, and neutralize terrorism-related threats before they reach an operational stage. The DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE explained that these investigations often involve a combination of intelligence gathering, lawful surveillance, interviews, and coordination with other federal, state, and local agencies.

The FBI noted that ISIS, despite territorial losses overseas, continues to be designated as a foreign terrorist organization and remains a focus of U.S. counterterrorism efforts. Authorities stated that individuals attempting to provide support to ISIS, whether through planning, recruitment, or other means, are subject to federal prosecution regardless of whether the support is successful or completed.

According to the DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE, the disruption of the alleged plot underscores the role of preventive law enforcement in national security. Federal counterterrorism laws are structured to allow intervention before acts of violence occur, with the aim of protecting the public while upholding constitutional safeguards. Officials emphasized that these authorities are exercised under judicial oversight and established legal standards.

The FBI stated that cooperation between federal agencies and the public remains essential to identifying potential threats. While this case did not rely on public tips as a primary factor, authorities reiterated that community awareness and reporting of suspicious behavior continue to be important components of national security efforts. The Bureau encourages individuals to report credible concerns through official channels.

The DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE also noted that terrorism-related cases frequently involve extensive review of digital communications, financial records, and other evidence to establish intent and connection to designated organizations. Federal prosecutors must meet a high evidentiary standard to bring charges, particularly in cases involving attempted material support rather than completed acts.

Officials emphasized that the legal framework governing material support charges is designed to address both direct and indirect assistance to terrorist groups. According to the DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE, attempting to provide support can be charged even if the assistance never reaches the organization, provided prosecutors can establish intent and substantial steps toward committing the offense.

The FBI further stated that New Year’s Eve and other major holidays are routinely subject to heightened security measures, reflecting historical patterns in which extremist actors have sought to exploit large gatherings. The Bureau works closely with state and local law enforcement partners during such periods to share intelligence and coordinate preparedness efforts.

According to the DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE, the case demonstrates the continued application of post-September 11th counterterrorism statutes, which were enacted to expand federal authority to disrupt terrorist activity at early stages. Officials emphasized that these laws have been upheld by the courts and are applied within constitutional boundaries.

The FBI reiterated that investigations into terrorism-related offenses are conducted with attention to civil liberties and due process. Authorities stated that investigative actions require appropriate legal authorization and are subject to review by prosecutors and the courts. The Bureau emphasized that public safety and constitutional protections are not mutually exclusive, but are pursued together under the rule of law.

The DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE stated that additional details regarding the investigation may be presented in court filings as the case proceeds. Officials declined to speculate on potential sentencing outcomes, noting that penalties, if any, would be determined by the court in accordance with federal sentencing guidelines and statutory requirements.

Federal officials also emphasized that cases involving alleged support for foreign terrorist organizations are taken seriously regardless of whether an individual acts alone or seeks coordination with others. According to the FBI, lone-actor cases can present unique challenges, making early identification and disruption especially important.

The DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE concluded that the successful disruption of the alleged New Year’s Eve attack reflects the ongoing efforts of federal law enforcement to protect the public from terrorism-related threats. Officials stated that continued vigilance, lawful investigative practices, and interagency cooperation remain essential to national security.

Authorities reiterated that the criminal justice process will determine the outcome of the case. The DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE emphasized that transparency through court proceedings allows the public to evaluate the evidence and legal arguments as they are presented, reinforcing accountability and trust in the legal system.

Sources

Primary First-Hand Sources

• UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE — OFFICE OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS
• FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION (FBI)