Summary
An Afghan national, Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi, has been charged with plotting a terrorist attack on Election Day in the United States, allegedly inspired by ISIS. Previously employed by the CIA in Afghanistan, Tawhedi was paroled into the U.S. shortly after the Taliban’s takeover in 2021, raising significant concerns regarding the vetting process for Afghan evacuees.
Tawhedi, 27, was arrested in Oklahoma City after he and a juvenile co-conspirator allegedly acquired AK-47 rifles and planned to target large gatherings during the elections. Following his arrival in the U.S. on September 9, 2021, he was initially granted humanitarian parole and later applied for a Special Immigrant Visa (SIV). Reports indicate that while he underwent multiple screenings, there were significant lapses in the vetting process, leading to questions about how individuals with potential security risks were admitted into the country. Investigations revealed that Tawhedi had radicalized after his arrival, engaging in online activities linked to ISIS and expressing intentions to commit violence against American citizens.
Background and Vetting Concerns
The Biden administration’s evacuation of Afghan nationals has faced scrutiny, particularly regarding the vetting procedures for those granted entry into the U.S. Tawhedi’s case has highlighted potential failures in the system, with reports suggesting that some evacuees may not have been adequately screened. According to a DHS Inspector General report, critical data necessary for proper vetting was often lacking, which could have allowed individuals posing security risks to enter the country.
Radicalization and Alleged Plot
Investigators believe Tawhedi became radicalized after arriving in the U.S., a trend observed in several past terrorism cases. He allegedly conducted online searches for surveillance cameras in Washington, D.C., and expressed intentions to carry out an attack during the elections, expecting martyrdom. His arrest followed an undercover operation where he and his co-conspirator attempted to purchase firearms for the planned attack, underscoring the ongoing threat posed by individuals radicalized within the U.S.
Official Responses
In light of Tawhedi’s arrest, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas faced questions regarding the vetting process but opted to focus on other pressing issues, such as natural disasters. This has sparked debate among lawmakers and security officials about the adequacy of the current vetting procedures for Afghan evacuees and the implications for national security.
Afghan charged with planning Election Day attack previously worked for CIA
Oct. 10 / Cbs News / Confirms Tawhedi's CIA employment and details his intentions, providing a thorough account of his actions leading up to the arrest. The piece effectively integrates multiple sources to paint a comprehensive picture. “ Washington — The Afghan national charged with planning an Election Day terror attack was previously employed in a security role in Afghanistan by the CIA,...
Oklahoma City man faces charges related to planned Election Day terrorist attack
Oct. 10 / Raw Story / Provides a clear overview of the charges against Tawhedi while emphasizing the role of law enforcement in thwarting the attack. The inclusion of statements from officials adds authority and context to the narrative. “ An Oklahoma City man has been charged with planning an Election Day terrorist attack, the U.S. Department of Justice announced Tuesday. Authorities allege...
Afghan man charged with Election Day terror plot screened multiple times, worked CIA security job
Oct. 11 / Fox News / Highlights Tawhedi's CIA background and the political implications of his case, effectively framing the conversation around vetting procedures. The article raises critical questions about national security. “ Former DHS senior adviser Charles Marino argues the Biden administration's policies 'defy common sense' and go against best practices for securing the...
Mayorkas Dodges Fox News Reporter’s Questions About Afghan Arrested Over Election Day Terror Plot
Oct. 10 / Dailycaller / Focuses on the lack of answers from Secretary Mayorkas, showcasing the tension between political accountability and national security. However, it lacks depth in exploring the broader implications of the case. “ Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas refused to answer questions from Fox News Senior White House Correspondent Jacqui Heinrich on Thursday...
Mayorkas refuses to answer questions on Afghan accused of Election Day terror plot
Oct. 10 / Fox News / Covers Mayorkas's evasiveness during a press briefing, shedding light on the ongoing concerns about vetting processes. While informative, it could benefit from more context regarding the implications of these failures. “ DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas declined to answer questions about an Afghan national accused of an Election Day terror plot. Homeland Security Secretary...
Oct. 10 / New York Post / Presents a strong critique of the vetting process during the Afghanistan withdrawal, incorporating quotes from officials that underscore systemic failures. The vivid language captures the urgency of the situation. “ The Afghan national who is charged with plotting an ISIS-inspired Election Day massacre on American voters is just one example of the “f–king disaster”...