JUST IN: FBI Foils ISIS-Linked Terror Plot

The U.S. Justice Department announced Tuesday that an ISIS-linked terrorist plot potentially targeting New Year’s Eve celebrants in Texas has been thwarted.

Federal prosecutors announced that John Michael Garza Jr., a 21-year-old resident of Midlothian, Texas, had been charged with attempting to provide material support or resources to the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS).

The charge stems from a December 22 incident when Garza met an individual he believed was an ISIS supporter and provided various bomb-making components. The recipient was an undercover FBI agent, and Garza was arrested shortly after leaving the meeting.

The investigation originated in mid-October 2025, when an undercover employee of the New York City Police Department identified a social media account associated with Garza. The account followed multiple pro-ISIS profiles and had commented on pro-ISIS content.

Garza described himself as a Mexican-American living in Texas during subsequent online communications with the undercover officer.

Throughout November and December 2025, Garza engaged in conversations where he expressed support for ISIS ideology. He shared official ISIS media releases, including images of masked individuals, explosions, and a video depicting a suicide vehicle bombing. Garza also sent small amounts of cryptocurrency to the undercover officer, believing the funds would support ISIS activities, such as purchasing firearms or other materials.

As the interactions continued, Garza discussed plans to acquire ingredients for explosives. He agreed to meet a second individual, whom he thought was another ISIS supporter, to transfer the materials. During the December 22 meeting, Garza handed over several explosive components, explained how to mix them, suggested adding nails to increase lethality, and offered to send an instructional video on assembling a bomb.

Law enforcement arrested Garza immediately after the exchange. He then made an initial appearance before a U.S. magistrate judge in the Northern District of Texas on December 23.

If convicted, Garza faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison.

“This case is a testament to the incredible work of our federal agents, who work tirelessly to save American lives. ISIS’s poisonous ideology must be ripped out root and stem — anyone who tries to commit violence on ISIS’s behalf will be found, arrested, and prosecuted. You cannot hide from us,” said Attorney General Pam Bondi.

RELATED: 115 ISIS Members Arrested For Plotting Christmas, New Year’s Eve Attacks