Federal authorities have charged Tarek Bazrouk, a 20-year-old New York resident, with three federal hate crimes for allegedly assaulting Jewish individuals during anti-Israel protests in Manhattan. The Department of Justice (DOJ) revealed that Bazrouk had a direct Hamas link, specifically to the al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of the terrorist organization.
The assaults occurred between April 2024 and January 2025 at protests near the New York Stock Exchange, Columbia University, and Gramercy Park. In one incident, Bazrouk, wearing a green headband associated with Hamas, allegedly kicked a Jewish student in the stomach while being escorted by police. In another, he reportedly stole an Israeli flag from a Jewish student and punched him in the face. A third victim was punched in the nose after Bazrouk allegedly tripped him during a protest.
Court documents indicate that Bazrouk’s phone contained pro-Hamas and Hezbollah content, and he described himself as a “Jew hater” in text messages. He was also part of a chat group receiving updates from Hamas spokesman Abu Obeida.
During a search of Bazrouk’s residence, authorities discovered weapons and $750,000 in cash. He had previously been arrested in Connecticut for operating a drug factory.
The DOJ emphasized the seriousness of the charges. “The Civil Rights Division will continue to relentlessly pursue allegations of antisemitic violence and will not stop until justice is served for the victims and their families,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon.
