Halifax authorities have arrested a 54-year-old man, Ali Assakereh, for allegedly issuing a bomb threat against the U.S. Consulate. This incident led to the evacuation of several buildings and streets in downtown Halifax for five hours. Assakereh appeared in Halifax provincial court on Tuesday, facing charges of making threats and causing public mischief. His bail hearing was postponed to the following day upon the request of the Crown, and he was remanded in custody.
The police were alerted to the bomb threat on Sunday night and discovered the suspect’s vehicle near the consulate the next morning. Assakereh was apprehended shortly afterward in the west end of the city. Despite the initial discovery of a propane tank and containers with flammable liquids in the vehicle, an explosives expert later confirmed that they did not pose a threat to public safety. Consequently, the evacuation orders were lifted at 2 p.m. on Monday.
During his court appearance via video link, Assakereh, communicating through an Arabic interpreter, raised concerns about racism he claimed to have experienced and expressed thoughts on leaving the Islamic religion. He alleged threats against himself and his family from various entities, including the authorities.
The incident in Halifax occurred shortly after two individuals were charged with shooting at the U.S. consulate in Toronto in July. The suspects, a 19-year-old man and a 15-year-old boy, are facing multiple charges related to a criminal activity scheme. In previous incidents targeting the Toronto consulate, individuals fired shots at the building, prompting heightened security measures.
In another development, an Iraqi national accused of plotting terror attacks in response to conflicts involving the U.S. and Israel was also linked to the attacks in Canada, including the shooting at the U.S. consulate in Toronto. He faces charges related to supporting terrorist organizations and conspiring to commit violent acts.
The ongoing investigations highlight the importance of vigilance around consulates and diplomatic missions in Canada. While no injuries were reported in these incidents, authorities continue to monitor and address security threats effectively.
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