A weekend protest outside New York City’s mayoral residence escalated into a major federal investigation after two men were arrested for allegedly bringing homemade explosive devices to the demonstration. According to federal court documents, authorities say the suspects claimed they were inspired by the extremist group ISIS (Islamic State).

The incident occurred Saturday near Gracie Mansion, where protesters had gathered for an anti-Islam rally organized by far-right activist Jake Lang. The demonstration quickly drew a much larger crowd of counter-protesters, turning the area into a tense and chaotic scene.

Authorities say the explosive devices were thrown during the confrontation but failed to detonate, preventing what officials described as a potentially devastating attack.

The two suspects — Emir Balat, 18, and Ibrahim Kayumi, 19 — were arraigned Monday and ordered held without bail. Prosecutors charged them with serious federal offenses including:

During the brief court hearing, the men did not speak. However, the criminal complaint states that Kayumi allegedly told officers during his arrest that ISIS inspired his actions.

Investigators also claim Balat later told authorities he had pledged allegiance to the Islamic State group.

James Barnacle, head of the FBI’s New York office, said the suspects attempted to create fear and widespread harm.

According to investigators, the devices used in the incident were jar-sized homemade explosives containing TATP, a highly volatile compound often associated with terrorist attacks.

Court documents describe the explosive devices as containing:

Authorities say Balat first threw one device toward the crowd of demonstrators. The explosive reportedly extinguished itself just steps from police officers.

Prosecutors say Balat then ran down the street, retrieved a second similar device from Kayumi, and attempted to deploy it before officers tackled him and made the arrests.

Police say both suspects are Pennsylvania residents who traveled to New York shortly before the protest.

An automated license plate reader reportedly captured their vehicle entering the city from New Jersey less than an hour before the incident. The car — registered to a relative of Balat — was later located several blocks from the protest site.

Investigators searching the vehicle discovered items that raised further alarm, including:

Officials say the discovery suggests the suspects may have been preparing more explosives.

The explosive incident occurred during counter-protests sparked by an anti-Islam rally led by activist Jake Lang.

Lang, a controversial political figure who has previously faced charges related to the January 6 U.S. Capitol riot, had organized the event to criticize New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani, the city’s first Muslim mayor.

While Lang’s rally drew only a small number of supporters, hundreds of counter-protesters arrived, creating a tense standoff between opposing groups.

Police say the situation was already volatile before the explosive devices were thrown. At least one protest participant was arrested earlier for pepper-spraying counter-demonstrators.

Speaking outside Gracie Mansion the following morning, Mayor Mamdani confirmed that neither he nor his family were home during the protest.

He emphasized that authorities believe the suspects traveled specifically to bring violence to New York City.

Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch also stated that investigators have found no evidence linking the attack attempt to the ongoing conflict involving Iran.

Authorities have since executed search warrants at locations in eastern Pennsylvania, and federal investigators continue examining possible connections or additional threats.

Lawyers representing the suspects urged the public not to rush to conclusions.

Balat’s attorney described his client as a high school senior dealing with “complicated personal issues,” arguing that the teenager may not fully understand the seriousness of the allegations.

Meanwhile, Kayumi’s lawyer warned that extensive media coverage could potentially influence future jurors if the case proceeds to trial.

The case highlights growing concerns among law enforcement agencies about radicalization among young individuals and the use of homemade explosives at public demonstrations.

Federal authorities say the investigation remains active as they analyze digital evidence, examine the suspects’ backgrounds, and determine whether others may have been involved.

For now, officials stress that the quick response by police likely prevented a far more dangerous outcome.