A George Mason University (GMU) freshman has been barred from campus following allegations of running pro-ISIS and al-Qaeda social media accounts and plotting a mass casualty attack, according to officials. Abdullah Ezzeldin Taha Mohamed Hassan, 18, an Egyptian national residing in Falls Church, Virginia, is under investigation by federal authorities.
FBI Uncovers Alleged Terrorist Activity
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) initiated its investigation into Hassan after the Fairfax County Police Department received an anonymous tip on May 4 about an X (formerly Twitter) account displaying “radical and terrorist-leaning behavior.” Court documents reveal that Hassan operated multiple accounts on X, Instagram, and Telegram, where he allegedly shared extremist propaganda and advocated violence against Jewish individuals.
Authorities claim Hassan was planning an attack on the Consulate General of Israel, intending to use explosives and firearms. The FBI also alleged he planned to record the attack and share the footage through ISIS media channels.
Troubling Social Media Activity
According to court records, Hassan’s social media posts frequently promoted violence and extremist ideologies:
- March 21: Hassan posted about martyrdom, stating, “Because all of those martyrs have been guaranteed paradise, this life is a test and we can leave it at any time for the afterlife.”
- March 27: In a debate on X, he wrote, “Islam is a religion of justice, not peace,” and defended violence as a form of justice.
- April 8: Hassan defended Hamas, describing them as “an armed resistance,” and accused the Israeli Defense Forces of war crimes.
- May 2: Commenting on Osama bin Laden’s death, Hassan referred to him as “my idolo.”
- May 31: He commented on a photo of a football player, calling the person’s forehead a “sniper’s dream.”
GMU Responds
GMU confirmed Hassan’s enrollment as a freshman majoring in information technology. Paola Duran, the university’s Director of External Communications, stated, “The individual in question is currently a freshman majoring in information technology. The student does not live on campus, and he has been barred from entering university property.”
The university emphasized its commitment to ensuring the safety of its campus community.
Next Steps for Hassan
The FBI disclosed that Hassan is currently in removal proceedings with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This process could lead to his deportation. In the meantime, the investigation continues to uncover the full extent of his activities and affiliations.
This alarming case highlights the importance of vigilance in identifying and addressing threats posed by individuals who may harbor extremist ideologies. Federal authorities stress the need for continued cooperation between law enforcement, educational institutions, and the community to safeguard public safety.