FROM CBS NEWS: Lafayette, Louisiana — Mahmoud Amin Ya’qub al-Muhtadi, a man accused of participating in Hamas’ Oct. 7, 2023, terrorist attack in Israel, pleaded not guilty on Wednesday in federal court in Louisiana.
Al-Muhtadi, 33, appeared before a judge for an arraignment in an orange prison jumpsuit, shackled at the hands and feet. As he entered the courtroom, he stumbled slightly over his shackles. He greeted his attorneys and interpreter, who had flown in to Lafayette for the hearing, with a “Good afternoon.”
The judge informed al-Muhtadi he had been indicted by a grand jury on two counts — conspiracy to provide material support to a terror organization resulting in death and fraud and misuse of visa permits.
In court documents unsealed last week, 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.
According to prosecutors Al-Muhtadi coordinated a “group of armed fighters” to enter Israel upon learning of Hamas’ attack.
He allegedly asked for ammunition and a bulletproof vest, and told people to “bring the rifles” and to “get ready.”
After the attack, Al-Muhtadi applied for a U.S. visa and denied being a member or representative of a terror organization, having any skills or training, including firearm usage, and ever engaging in terrorist activities, court documents reveal.
“This is just pure evil – and it was right here on American soil.” @TriciaOhio
Mahmoud Amin Ya’qub Al-Muhtadi, 33, a Gazan native currently residing in Lafayette, Louisiana, was arrested for his alleged involvement in the Hamas-led terrorist attack against Israel on Oct. 7,… pic.twitter.com/28HZpyRA4n
— Homeland Security (@DHSgov) October 20, 2025
Man linked to Hamas attack on Israel indicted in Louisiana for conspiring to support terrorist group https://t.co/OVpZ5qSOfG
— Fox News (@FoxNews) October 23, 2025
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