Man arrested over plot to firebomb NY pro-Palestinian activist's home

March 27, 2026

Federal authorities arrested 26-year-old Alexander Heifler in New Jersey for allegedly plotting a violent attack against Nerdeen Kiswani, a prominent pro-Palestinian activist in New York City. An undercover law enforcement officer infiltrated a self-defense group that Heifler joined, documenting his plans to firebomb Kiswani's residence using Molotov cocktails he had manufactured. Police recovered eight Molotov cocktails from Heifler's Hoboken home and apprehended him near Kiswani's residence while he carried materials to assemble additional incendiary devices.

Who is affected

Nerdeen Kiswani (pro-Palestinian activist and co-founder of Within Our Lifetime)
Alexander Heifler (arrested suspect)
Within Our Lifetime organization members
Pro-Palestinian activists who have experienced harassment campaigns

What action is being taken

Alexander Heifler has been arrested and taken into custody
Heifler is being charged with unlawful possession and making of destructive devices
Law enforcement agents have executed a search warrant at Heifler's residence and recovered eight Molotov cocktails

Why it matters

This case represents a serious escalation of political violence targeting activists engaged in the Israeli-Palestinian debate. The incident highlights growing concerns about domestic extremism and threats against individuals exercising their First Amendment rights to advocate for controversial political positions. The successful intervention by law enforcement through undercover operations potentially prevented a deadly attack and demonstrates the real dangers faced by activists on both sides of contentious geopolitical issues.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC