Washington D.C. – November 5, 2025 – The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has announced the arrest of two American citizens in connection with an alleged ISIS-inspired plot targeting Halloween festivities. The arrests, which took place shortly before the holiday, underscore the persistent threat of domestic terrorism and the ongoing vigilance of federal law enforcement agencies against extremist ideologies.

According to a statement released by the DOJ on Monday, November 3, the individuals were apprehended based on intelligence indicating their involvement in planning attacks inspired by the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) during the Halloween period. While specific details of the alleged plot remain under wraps as the investigation proceeds, authorities emphasized the serious nature of the threat and the preventative measures taken to safeguard public safety.

Details of the Arrests and Allegations

Few details about the identities of the arrested individuals have been publicly released, consistent with standard procedure in ongoing national security investigations. However, a senior federal law enforcement official, speaking anonymously to ABC News, confirmed that the individuals were U.S. citizens and that their actions were believed to be directly inspired by ISIS propaganda and calls for lone-wolf attacks.

The arrests reportedly followed a period of intense surveillance and intelligence gathering by federal agencies, including the FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force. The investigation focused on online communications and activities suggesting a commitment to carrying out violent acts in the name of the extremist group. The specific targets or methods of the alleged plot have not been disclosed, but officials indicated the intent was to cause mass casualties or significant disruption during widely attended public events associated with Halloween.

The ISIS Connection and Ideological Motivation

The alleged ISIS inspiration points to a continuing challenge for counter-terrorism efforts within the United States. Despite significant territorial losses for ISIS in the Middle East, its online presence and propaganda continue to radicalize individuals globally, including within Western nations. These "lone-wolf" or "homegrown violent extremist" plots are often characterized by individuals acting independently or in small cells, motivated by extremist ideology disseminated through social media and encrypted messaging platforms.

"This incident serves as a stark reminder that the threat of terrorism, both foreign and domestically inspired, remains a critical concern," stated a DOJ spokesperson during a brief press conference. "Our law enforcement agencies are continuously working to identify and neutralize these threats before they can materialize, protecting our communities from harm."

Law Enforcement Response and Public Safety

The timing of these arrests – just ahead of a major public holiday – highlights the proactive nature of federal investigations. Law enforcement agencies routinely increase monitoring and security measures around significant dates when large gatherings are common, recognizing them as potential targets for extremist groups. The success in disrupting this alleged plot demonstrates the effectiveness of intelligence-sharing and coordinated efforts between local, state, and federal partners.

"Public safety is our paramount concern," the DOJ spokesperson added. "We urge all citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to local authorities. Community cooperation is an essential layer of our national security defense."

Broader Context of Domestic Terrorism

This alleged plot contributes to a growing trend of domestic extremism that U.S. intelligence agencies have frequently warned about. While some threats stem from foreign terrorist organizations like ISIS, others originate from domestic extremist groups with diverse ideological motivations. The challenge for law enforcement lies in distinguishing between protected speech and credible threats of violence, particularly in the complex landscape of online communications.

The case will likely proceed through federal courts, where more details about the evidence and the defendants' alleged intentions may emerge. These proceedings are critical for understanding the evolving nature of extremist threats and for reinforcing the rule of law in combating terrorism.