Islamophobia at its most intense: “He pleaded guilty to three counts: conspiring to use weapons of mass destruction, conspiracy to commit murder in a foreign country and providing material support to a terrorist organization.”
More on this story. “Najibullah Zazi pleads guilty in New York terrorism plot,” from CNN, February 22 (thanks to Mackie):
NEW YORK (CNN) — Terrorism suspect Najibullah Zazi pleaded guilty Monday to conspiring to detonate explosives in the United States.
In an appearance before a federal judge, Zazi admitted his role in the conspiracy, saying, “In spring 2008, I conspired with others to join the Taliban, to fight along with the Taliban against the United States.”
“We were recruited to al Qaeda instead,” he said.
He pleaded guilty to three counts: conspiring to use weapons of mass destruction, conspiracy to commit murder in a foreign country and providing material support to a terrorist organization.
The terms of the plea deal were sealed. Sentencing is set for June 25.
Zazi was arrested in September in an alleged plot to build and detonate bombs in New York around the anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
While at a terrorist training camp, he “had discussions with al Qaeda about targets including the New York City subway system,” Zazi said in court Monday.
He said he learned how to make explosives at the camp and e-mailed himself bomb-making instructions to use once he returned to the United States.
“In early September 2009, I drove to New York with materials to build bombs,” he said.
Federal officials have said the conspiracy involving Zazi represents the most serious terrorism plot since 9/11 and the investigation is intense and ongoing….