Man who stabbed author Salman Rushdie convicted of terrorism charges

A New York jury has convicted Hadi Matar, the attacker of author Salman Rushdie, on federal terrorism charges, potentially leading to a life sentence. Matar is already serving a 25-year prison term for the 2022 assault that left the acclaimed novelist partially blind.

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His brutal attack on Mr Rushdie during a peaceful speaking event is a chilling reminder of the global reach of Iranian terrorism.

The verdict came after two hours of deliberations on Wednesday, with the jury finding Matar guilty on all counts. These include charges of attempting to provide material support to Hezbollah, an organization designated as terrorist by the United States. The conviction underscores the global reach of terrorism and the enduring controversy surrounding Rushdie's 1988 novel, "The Satanic Verses."

Prosecutors presented evidence suggesting Matar was motivated by a fatwa issued in 1989 by Iran's then-Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, which called for Rushdie's death. Testimony indicated Matar had discussed the fatwa on messaging apps in the period leading up to the attack. "His brutal attack on Mr. Rushdie during a peaceful speaking event is a chilling reminder of the global reach of Iranian terrorism," stated Assistant Attorney General John Eisenberg, emphasizing that "justice has been done."

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justice has been done.

Iran has officially denied any involvement in the attack. Salman Rushdie himself testified during the federal trial, recounting the assault. When questioned about whether Matar was motivated by the fatwa, Rushdie stated he had no direct knowledge but admitted to his suspicions. The author has since channeled his experience into a memoir titled "Knife: Meditations After an Attempted Murder."

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I had no knowledge of that. I have my suspicions.