ISIS calls on Muslims to set fire to churches and synagogues across US
The Islamic State group has called on Muslims to carry out arson attacks on churches and synagogues across the United States and Europe during the Easter period, issuing the threat in its latest propaganda publication.
The message appeared in the newest edition of the group’s weekly outlet, al-Naba, released Thursday. In the publication, ISIS urged followers to respond to Israel’s decision to close the al-Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem by targeting Jewish houses of worship in multiple countries.
According to a translation of the article, the group claimed that Muslims should act in response to what it described as the “tragedy” of the mosque’s closure. It called on supporters to burn synagogues in the United States, Europe, Russia, India and other locations. The message also mentioned synagogues in Tunisia, Morocco, the United Arab Emirates and Syria, claiming their locations were already known and documented.
The propaganda piece also encouraged similar attacks on Christian churches. In addition, ISIS called for assaults on what it described as “Jewish gatherings” worldwide. The group told followers to imitate the actions of individuals it referred to as the “Sydney Heroes,” referencing the 2025 Hanukkah terror attack in Australia that resulted in 16 deaths, including one of the attackers, and left 40 people injured.
ISIS further claimed responsibility for causing 60 casualties through 15 operations over the past week, though such claims are often difficult to independently verify.
Israeli authorities ordered the closure of the al-Aqsa mosque, one of Islam’s holiest sites, in late February. Officials cited security concerns tied to the ongoing Israeli-U.S. conflict with Iran. The restrictions also included bans on large gatherings at several other major religious locations in Jerusalem, including the Western Wall and the Church of the Holy Sepulcher.
The hilltop compound that contains the mosque is referred to by Muslims as the Noble Sanctuary, while Jews know it as the Temple Mount.
Palestinian officials have criticized the restrictions on Muslim worshippers at the site. At the same time, some Jewish groups have requested access to the area to conduct Passover-related rituals in April. In the same al-Naba newsletter, ISIS also addressed the situation of Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli prisons.
The propaganda release came shortly after Israel enacted a controversial new law on Monday establishing execution by hanging as the standard punishment for murders committed with the intent of denying the existence of the State of Israel.
Critics argue the wording of the law effectively targets Palestinian militants and could exclude Israeli citizens who kill Palestinians from facing the same penalty.
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