Two men plead not guilty in ISIS-inspired Gracie Mansion bomb plot

Two men accused of attempting to bomb Gracie Mansion, the official residence of New York City's mayor, pleaded not guilty Wednesday in federal court. The charges stem from an alleged plot authorities describe as inspired by ISIS, involving homemade explosives and a coordinated plan to carry out an attack in one of the city's most symbolic locations.

Federal prosecutors outlined evidence they say shows extensive planning, including encrypted messages, online searches for bomb-making techniques, and surveillance of the mansion. According to court filings, the suspects-Amir Balat and Ibrahim Kayumi-conducted multiple site visits and discussed timing the attack to maximize media attention. Investigators described the digital trail as "voluminous," with hundreds of files recovered from devices linked to the pair.

The devices, described as crude pipe bombs, were placed near the perimeter of the property but failed to detonate. They were discovered by security personnel during a routine sweep. No injuries were reported, and the suspects were arrested days later following a joint operation by the FBI, NYPD, and Joint Terrorism Task Force.

While neither suspect has known direct ties to ISIS leadership, prosecutors argue that their actions and online activity show clear ideological alignment. One defendant reportedly praised past terrorist attacks in online forums and expressed a desire to "strike in the heart of America."

The case has drawn national attention, not only for the target but for the methods used. Law enforcement officials warn that the accessibility of bomb-making instructions online continues to pose a growing threat, especially when combined with radical ideologies. This case echoes past incidents where individuals with no formal terrorist training attempted attacks using widely available materials.

Security around Gracie Mansion has since been increased, and city officials have reiterated their commitment to protecting public figures and infrastructure. Mayor Eric Adams, who was in residence at the time, released a brief statement thanking law enforcement and calling the incident "a reminder of the vigilance we must maintain."

Trial proceedings are expected to begin later this year. The suspects remain in federal custody without bail, facing multiple counts including attempted use of a weapon of mass destruction and providing material support to terrorism.