Terrorist who wanted to make bombs arrested at Texas border

An unexpected admission by a young man has raised alarms across national security apparatuses. Breitbart reported that Basel Bassel Ebbadi, a 22-year-old Lebanese national, startled Border Patrol agents near El Paso, Texas, with his declaration of being a Hezbollah terrorist intent on constructing a bomb in New York.

This shocking revelation came after Ebbadi's illegal crossing from Mexico into the United States, where he detailed his extensive training and active membership with Hezbollah, alarming authorities.

Basel Bassel Ebbadi's journey into the spotlight of national security began on March 9, as he made the illegal traverse from Mexico into the United States, near the border city of El Paso, Texas. The young Lebanese were among the numerous individuals who attempted this dangerous crossing, albeit with an unnervingly distinct purpose.

Delving into Ebbadi's Troubling Past

Upon his arrest, Border Patrol agents transported Ebbadi to the El Paso hardened facility, a place designed for processing and investigating individuals who cross the border under suspicious circumstances. This facility, known for its stringent security measures, became the initial setting for Ebbadi's startling admission.

It was on March 12, three days after his apprehension, that Ebbadi, having been properly Mirandized, disclosed his connections with the Lebanon-based militant group, Hezbollah. His admission not only confirmed his illegal entry into the country but also shed light on a far more sinister aspect of his intentions.

Ebbadi confessed to having spent seven years in training with Hezbollah, followed by four years as an active member. His duties, as he described, involved guarding weapon locations, a role that underscored the seriousness of his involvement with the group known for its terrorist activities.

The Bomb Threat Concerns

The most chilling moment during the investigation came when Ebbadi, upon questioning about his purpose in the United States, blatantly stated, “I’m going to try to make a bomb.” This disturbing declaration immediately escalated the situation, prompting authorities to place him in isolation.

In response to the threat, the Tactical Terrorism Response Team was called in for further interrogation. This specialist team, trained specifically for dealing with potential terrorist threats, aimed to ascertain the scope of Ebbadi's intentions and his capability to carry out such a plan.

This incident sheds light on the ongoing concerns regarding individuals on the terror watch list illegally entering the United States. In the first four months of Fiscal Year 24, border authorities encountered nearly 60 migrants with potential terror ties, a worrying trend that adds context to Ebbadi's arrest.

A Closer Look at the Border Security Challenges

The arrest of Basel Bassel Ebbadi represents a stark reminder of the complex challenges facing border security forces. It underscores the necessity for vigilance in monitoring those who seek to enter the country illegally, particularly those with possible connections to terrorist organizations.

The fact that, in just over six months starting October 1, 2023, around 60 individuals identified on the terror watch list have attempted to cross into the United States, with around 270 more apprehended in the two previous fiscal years, highlights a persistent threat. This statistic is not merely a number but a testament to the dedicated efforts of Border Patrol agents in safeguarding the nation's borders.

While the motivations behind each individual's attempt to enter the United States illegally vary, cases such as Ebbadi's represent a unique and profound security risk. His admission of being trained by and participating in Hezbollah's activities brings to light the intricate and often hidden threats that border agents must contend with daily.

The Homeland's Vigilance Against Terrorism

In conclusion, Basel Bassel Ebbadi's apprehension and his subsequent confession are a glaring reminder of the ongoing threats that loom outside and sometimes within the borders of the United States. His case, from the illicit crossing near El Paso to the shocking bomb claim, encapsulates the multifaceted nature of national security. Border Patrol agents, with their vigilance and dedication, play a critical role in identifying and mitigating such dangers. As investigations continue, the full extent of Ebbadi's intentions and potential connections will be crucial in understanding and preventing any future terrorist threats.

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