Federal officials have confirmed that the March 12 attack on Temple Israel in West Bloomfield, Michigan, was a “Hezbollah-inspired act of terrorism.” The assailant, Ayman Muhammad Ghazali, a naturalized U.S. citizen originally from Lebanon, deliberately targeted the synagogue while dozens of children were inside.
Investigators revealed that Ghazali had spent months consuming pro-Hezbollah content and searching for information about Jewish gatherings in Michigan. In the days leading up to the attack, he purchased an AR-style rifle, ammunition, fireworks, torch lighters, and gallons of gasoline. He also shared online messages indicating his intent to commit mass violence.
On the day of the attack, Ghazali rammed his vehicle into the synagogue doors, exchanged gunfire with security personnel, and reportedly ignited fireworks inside his truck. The vehicle eventually caught fire, filling the hallway with smoke. Ghazali died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, while a security guard was injured and several officers were treated for smoke inhalation.
Authorities have said that Ghazali acted alone and had not previously appeared on the FBI’s radar. Prosecutors stated that if he had survived, he would have faced terrorism-related charges, including providing material support to Hezbollah. The attack underscores ongoing concerns over domestic radicalization inspired by foreign extremist groups.