A 28-year-old man with dual American and German citizenship has been arrested for allegedly planning a firebombing attack on the U.S. Embassy in Tel Aviv, Israel.
Suspect Detained at JFK Airport After Deportation from Israel
The suspect, identified as Joseph Neumayer, was taken into custody by the FBI at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport. Israeli authorities had previously detained Neumayer before deporting him back to the United States. Upon his return, a federal judge ordered him held in custody.
According to the U.S. Department of Justice, Neumayer arrived in Israel in April 2025. His first run-in with Israeli security occurred on May 19, when he allegedly approached the U.S. Embassy in Tel Aviv, spat on a security guard, and attempted to flee the scene.
Backpack Left Behind Contained Molotov Cocktails
During the incident, Neumayer was reportedly carrying a dark-colored backpack. When the embassy guard tried to stop him, he escaped — leaving the bag behind. Authorities later searched the abandoned backpack and found three makeshift firebombs, also known as Molotov cocktails.
Social Media Posts Show Violent Intentions
Officials say that Neumayer had posted threatening messages on social media earlier that day. In one of the posts, he allegedly called on others to “burn down the embassy in Tel Aviv” and made violent threats against Americans and Western nations.
He also reportedly posted death threats aimed directly at former U.S. President Donald Trump.
Justice Department Vows Full Prosecution
Following his deportation on May 25, Neumayer now faces federal charges in the U.S. for attempted use of incendiary devices and making terrorist threats.
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi condemned the alleged plot, stating, “This case involves a planned act of violence targeting our embassy and threatening the lives of Americans, including a former President. We will prosecute this individual to the fullest extent of the law.”
FBI and U.S. Officials Highlight National Security Concerns
FBI Director Kash Patel emphasized the importance of global partnerships in tackling threats against U.S. interests. “Working alongside Israeli authorities, we’ve acted quickly to prevent what could have been a devastating attack,” Patel said.
U.S. Attorney Joseph Nocella added, “Violence against American citizens or facilities—anywhere in the world—will not be tolerated. Justice will be served.”
If convicted, Neumayer could face up to 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000.
United States Citizen Arrested for Attempted Firebombing of U.S. Embassy Branch Office in Tel Aviv, Israel
— U.S. Department of Justice (@TheJusticeDept) May 25, 2025
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