FBI arrests man over firebomb plot

Federal authorities arrested 26-year-old Alexander Heifler in March 2026 over an alleged plot to carry out a violent attack against New York-based Palestinian-American activist Nerdeen Kiswani.

According to law enforcement statements, Heifler was taken into custody in Hoboken, New Jersey, and charged with the unlawful possession and manufacture of destructive devices. Court documents state that agents recovered eight Molotov cocktails from his residence.

Authorities said the alleged plot began in February 2026, when Heifler participated in a video call with a group that included an undercover officer. During the call, he allegedly discussed throwing Molotov cocktails and later referenced plans to target Kiswani’s home.

Investigators reported that Heifler obtained the activist’s address and conducted surveillance of the residence on March 4 alongside an undercover agent. He allegedly stated that he had prepared an escape plan to leave the country after carrying out the attack.

On March 26, Heifler met the undercover officer near the target location while carrying materials used to assemble incendiary devices. Authorities stated that he intended to throw the devices at vehicles and at the residence.

Following the meeting, law enforcement executed a search warrant at his home, where additional devices were recovered. Officials said Heifler was acting alone and had no prior criminal record with the New York Police Department.

The charging documents did not specify a motive for the alleged attack. Officials confirmed that the investigation involved the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New York Police Department.

Kiswani stated that she was informed by federal authorities that a plot against her life had been identified. The case remains under investigation.