Trial postponed to 2026 for Afghan accused of ISIS-linked election day attack plot

The trial for Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi has been delayed until May 12, 2026, due to continuances requested by both parties.

Sunday, April 6th 2025, 9:22 am

By: Graham Dowers

OKLAHOMA CITY -

The trial for Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi has been delayed until May 12, 2026, due to continuances requested by both parties. The court found that since it is a complex case involving a significant amount of discovery and classified information, the motions for the continuance were granted.

About Tawhedi's charges

Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi, a 27-year-old Afghan citizen living in Oklahoma, has been accused of planning a terrorist attack on Election Day with the intent to target large crowds.

He faces multiple federal charges, including conspiring to provide material support to ISIS, attempting to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization, and receiving firearms and ammunition for use in a federal crime of terrorism.

Tawhedi and his 17-year-old brother-in-law, from Moore, purchased AK-47 rifles, magazines, and 500 rounds of ammunition as part of the plot. Tawhedi allegedly communicated with pro-ISIS groups online, shared ISIS propaganda, and transferred funds to the terrorist organization.

Tawhedi allegedly told the FBI that he intended to die as a martyr while acting on behalf of ISIS. Tawhedi's trial, which was initially scheduled for early 2025, has been postponed to April to allow more time for both the defense and prosecution to prepare.

Investigation and evidence against Tawhedi

According to FBI investigators, Tawhedi conducted Google searches on his computer for “how to access Washington D.C. cameras” and checked live footage of prominent landmarks such as the White House and the Washington Monument. This information raised concerns about Tawhedi's potential target cities.

Investigators also found evidence linking him to ISIS and his involvement in extremist activities. Tawhedi entered the U.S. in 2021 on a special immigrant visa designed for individuals who worked as translators for U.S. forces in Afghanistan. He remains in custody in Pottawatomie County, awaiting his trial.

Impact on Oklahoma's Muslim community

Tawhedi's arrest and the rising concerns about terrorism have led to an increase in Islamophobic sentiment within Oklahoma, with individuals blaming the entire Muslim community for the actions of extremists like Tawhedi.

Adam Solanti, the executive director of the Oklahoma chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), expressed concerns about the negative rhetoric aimed at Muslims.

“This type of anti-Muslim sentiment is not uncommon after high-profile crimes involving individuals from a Muslim background,” Solanti said. “In simple terms, ISIS is to Islam as the KKK is to Christianity. The actions of a few extremists should never define an entire faith or community.”

Solanti pointed out that after high-profile crimes involving Muslims, there is often an uptick in anti-Muslim sentiment and hate crimes. A voicemail containing derogatory remarks was left at the CAIR Oklahoma office, reflecting the rise in hate-fueled rhetoric.

Solanti stressed that addressing this issue requires education to counter misinformation and promote understanding of Islam. He encouraged anyone experiencing anti-Muslim hate crimes to report such incidents to local law enforcement or reach out to CAIR for support.

The ongoing challenge of addressing terrorism and immigration policies

The case of Tawhedi raises questions about the U.S.'s immigration and counterterrorism policies, as Tawhedi was granted special status as an Afghan translator. The incident has sparked national and local discussions about the balance between protecting national security and ensuring fair treatment for immigrants.

As the case progresses, the potential impact on both local communities and broader policy concerns remains an important issue.