US Citizen Detained in Shocking Alleged Bomb Plot Against US Embassy in Israel

WASHINGTON — Joseph Neumayer, a 28-year-old U.S. and German dual citizen, faces serious charges after a failed plot against the U.S. Embassy in Israel. The Department of Justice (DOJ) confirmed his arrest in New York on allegations of attempting to “destroy” the embassy.

According to federal prosecutors, Neumayer was deported from Israel after an incident outside the embassy on May 19, where he reportedly spat on a guard and left behind a backpack containing Molotov cocktails. Originally from Colorado, Neumayer had traveled to Israel from Canada after departing the U.S. in early February.

FBI Director Kash Patel condemned Neumayer’s actions, stating, “The defendant is charged with attempting to firebomb the U.S. Embassy and making threats to President Trump,” emphasizing that such behavior would not be tolerated. Social media investigations revealed posts linked to Neumayer that threatened the President and detailed plans to “burn down the embassy.”

On Saturday, he was apprehended at John F. Kennedy International Airport upon his return to the United States and is currently in custody. The incident unfolded amidst ongoing tensions related to Israel’s long-standing conflict in Gaza.

If convicted, Neumayer faces a minimum sentence of five years and up to 20 years in prison, alongside a potential fine of $250,000. The case is still under investigation by multiple FBI offices, with further details unavailable at this time.