Louisiana Man Accused of Hamas Ties Entered US Under Biden Visa Policy

A Louisiana man has been arrested for allegedly fighting with Hamas. Mahmoud Amin Ya’qub Al-Muhtadi was taken into custody in Lafayette. The arrest followed a federal investigation into his activities.

He is accused of participating in the October 7th attack on Israel. Officials say he entered the United States on an immigrant visa last year. This case has ignited a fierce debate over U.S. visa vetting procedures.

Charges Detail Alleged Terrorist Ties and Visa Fraud

According to a criminal complaint reviewed by the New York Times, Al-Muhtadi faces serious charges. He is accused of providing material support to a foreign terrorist organization. Visa fraud is another major count against him.

The complaint states he was a member of the National Resistance Brigades. This is the armed wing of the Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine. Prosecutors allege he organized fighters and entered Israel after the initial Hamas assault.

He was located by the FBI in Lafayette in June. Before that, he had been living in Tulsa, Oklahoma. ABC News reports he had been working at a restaurant.

Visa Application Under Scrutiny Following Arrest

The timing of his visa application is a central point of contention. Records indicate an individual named Mahmoud Almuhtadi signed a U.S. visa application on June 26, 2024. Joe Biden was president at that time.

The application, filed in Cairo, stated he was born in Gaza in 1991. It claimed he had no history of paramilitary or terrorist activities. He entered the U.S. through Dallas Fort Worth International Airport.

Authorities now assert he lied on that application. The case has become a political flashpoint, with critics questioning border security. Supporters of the administration note the system worked to identify and arrest him.

This case highlights ongoing national security challenges. The arrest of Mahmoud Al-Muhtadi underscores complex visa vetting processes. It remains a developing story with significant implications for U.S. immigration policy.

Info at your fingertips

What is Mahmoud Al-Muhtadi accused of doing?

He is accused of fighting alongside Hamas during the October 7th attack. Federal charges include providing material support to a terrorist group. He also faces charges for alleged visa fraud.

When did Al-Muhtadi enter the United States?

He entered the country last year through Dallas Fort Worth airport. His visa application was signed in June 2024. He was arrested in Louisiana in 2025.

Did the Biden administration grant his visa?

Yes, his visa was processed in June 2024 during the Biden administration. The application was filed at the U.S. embassy in Cairo. Officials allege the information he provided was false.

What group was he allegedly a part of?

Prosecutors say he was a member of the National Resistance Brigades. This is the military wing of the Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine. The U.S. government designates this group as a foreign terrorist organization.

Where was he living in the United States?

He was initially in Tulsa, Oklahoma after his arrival. The FBI later located him in Lafayette, Louisiana. He was working at a local restaurant at the time of his arrest.

Trusted Sources

ABC News, Associated Press, New York Times, KATC