Toronto Terror Arrests Highlight Persistent Threat of ISIS

The RCMP announced Wednesday the arrest of a father and son in the advanced stages of planning a violent attack in Toronto. Ahmed Fouad Mostafa Eldidi, 62, and Mostafa Eldidi, 26, face six terrorism charges for allegedly plotting a mass casualty attack with an axe and machete on behalf of ISIS.

Five years after its defeat in Syria, ISIS continues to inspire violence globally, demonstrating its enduring appeal. The father is also accused of a 2015 aggravated assault for ISIS outside Canada. Both suspects appeared in court and are set to return on Aug. 24.

At a press conference, RCMP Assistant Commissioner Matt Peggs assured the public of no remaining threat. The investigation, involving the Canadian Security Intelligence Service and local police, began in early July.

Colin P. Clarke of the Soufan Group noted ISIS’s increased propaganda efforts, with a focus on low-sophistication attacks using knives and vehicles. Since 2014, Canada has experienced eight ISIS-linked attacks, including incidents in Toronto, Mississauga, Scarborough, and Surrey, B.C.

In March, ISIS called for “lone wolf” attacks against Christians and Jews and attempted violence at the Paris Olympics. Former Toronto IT worker Mohammed Khalifa, a key ISIS propagandist, was captured and tried in the U.S., highlighting the critical role of propaganda in ISIS’s strategy to recruit and incite violence.

“The proficiency with English and communication skills made him a valuable asset to ISIS,” prosecutors argued, emphasizing the importance of propaganda in spreading violent messages and recruiting new members.