(DailyEmailNews.com) – In a shocking revelation, the FBI prevented a potentially devastating terrorist attack on a pro-Israel organization in Florida during Hanukkah.
The suspect targeted the group due to its “political influence” while armed with an AR-15 rifle.
Forrest Kendall Pemberton from Gainesville was arrested for plotting an attack on the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) office in Plantation, Florida.
The FBI’s quick action came after Pemberton’s father reported him missing and possibly armed on December 23.
Pemberton’s arrest is part of a disturbing pattern of increasing antisemitic threats against Jewish and Israeli targets in the United States following the October 7, 2023, invasion of Israel.
Recent thwarted attacks include plans against the Israeli consulate in New York City and a Jewish center in Brooklyn.
Pemberton traveled to what he believed was AIPAC’s headquarters but did not know the group had moved. He was carrying three guns including an AR-15 rifle.
Relatives discovered his “goodbye” note. It contained anti-authority statements and expressed his desire to “stoke the flames.”
During questioning, Pemberton revealed his chilling mindset, stating, “Um, I really don’t know if I was gonna end it with my life or not. I hadn’t gotten that far yet. It entirely depended if I ended up getting caught or not. If caught, that was a way out.”
The suspect even admitted he targeted AIPAC “because of its political influence.” In the meantime, Pemberton awaits his detention hearing on January 6.
In response to the incident, AIPAC spokesperson stated, “We take these threats very seriously and we are working closely with law enforcement concerning this matter.”
“We will not be deterred by extremists in pursuing our mission to strengthen the relationship with America’s valued ally, Israel. We are deeply appreciative of the FBI’s work to stop this individual,” the spokesperson added.
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