Two Pennsylvania men face federal charges after allegedly throwing improvised explosive devices during a violent confrontation outside New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s residence, with investigators discovering the suspects had watched ISIS propaganda videos before the attack.

Explosive Devices Target Officers

Emir Balat of Langhorne and Ibrahim Kayumi of Newton threw what initially appeared to be smoke bombs during a counterprotest at Gracie Mansion on Saturday. NYPD’s bomb squad determined the devices were actual improvised explosives capable of causing serious injury or death. Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch confirmed one device contained jars wrapped in black tape filled with nuts, bolts, and screws attached to hobby fuses. The explosives are now at the FBI lab in Quantico for further analysis.

The incident unfolded when approximately 20 protesters associated with far-right provocateur Jake Lang gathered outside the mayor’s residence for an anti-Muslim demonstration. About 120 counterprotesters arrived, and tensions rapidly escalated. An 18-year-old counterprotester lit and threw the first device, with witnesses reporting flames and smoke as it struck a barrier feet from police officers. The suspect obtained a second device from a 19-year-old accomplice before officers arrested both individuals.

Mayor Condemns Violence From Both Sides

Mayor Mamdani, New York City’s first Muslim mayor, denounced both the original protest and the violent response. He called Lang’s demonstration rooted in bigotry and racism while condemning the explosive attack as criminal and reprehensible. The mayor and his wife Rama Duwaji were confirmed safe, though their exact location during the incident remains unclear. Mamdani praised NYPD officers who ran toward danger without hesitation to protect New Yorkers.

Federal Investigation Expands

Police arrested six people total in connection with the dueling protests. One member of the anti-Muslim group allegedly used pepper spray on a counterprotester before the explosive devices were thrown. Law enforcement sources told ABC News that Balat and Kayumi admitted to watching ISIS videos and confronting Lang during the clash. The revelation raises serious questions about the suspects’ motivations and potential terrorism connections. No injuries were reported, but the proximity of the explosives to officers and civilians highlights the severity of the threat. Federal prosecutors are expected to file charges as the investigation continues.