Is Canada Becoming a Terrorist Hub? Canadian ISIS Sympathizer Foiled in Plot to Attack Brooklyn Synagogue on Hamas Attack Anniversary

Credits: CBC News

In a chilling development, authorities have thwarted a terrorist plot planned by a Pakistani citizen living in Toronto. The individual, identified as 20-year-old Mohammed Shaz Khan, was arrested on charges of plotting a mass shooting at a Jewish Center in Brooklyn, New York, targeting Jewish people on October 7—the one-year anniversary of the Hamas attack on Israel. Khan’s goal was reportedly to carry out the attack in support of ISIS.

The arrest, which occurred south of Montreal, was the result of a coordinated effort between Canadian and U.S. authorities. Khan has been charged in the U.S. with attempting to provide material support and resources to a designated foreign terrorist organization. If convicted, he could face up to 20 years in prison.

The RCMP commissioner condemned the planned attack as “deplorable” and emphasized that hate-motivated crimes have no place in Canada. According to authorities, Khan had been under surveillance for some time due to his online activity, which included posting ISIS propaganda. His behavior drew the attention of law enforcement, leading to his apprehension before he could carry out the planned attack.

Ward Alcock, a former CSIS director, explained that cases like this require extensive cooperation between Canadian and U.S. authorities. He highlighted the ongoing challenge for Canada, being geographically adjacent to the U.S., to contribute to the protection of the northern border. Alcock noted that while this case did not involve Khan sneaking across the border, Canada’s vigilance is essential to preventing terrorism.

As investigations continue, experts warn that while many aspiring terrorists may never follow through with their plans, it is the ones who take steps to act on their violent intentions—like Khan—that pose the greatest threat. Law enforcement has become increasingly adept at monitoring online activity, which has led to early intervention in cases like this.

This foiled plot adds to growing concerns about Canada’s role in global terrorism, as extremists seek to exploit the country’s systems to plan and execute attacks abroad. The quick response by authorities, however, underscores the importance of international cooperation in preventing such threats from turning into devastating realities.