A Chicago resident has been convicted in federal court for conspiring to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS). The individual, Ashraf Al Safoo, was found guilty of using social media to encourage attacks on ISIS's adversaries and recruit new members.
Al Safoo, a leader of Khattab Media Foundation, participated in creating and distributing ISIS propaganda online. The foundation pledged allegiance to ISIS and used various platforms to spread pro-ISIS content. According to court documents, Al Safoo encouraged members to disseminate information that would "cause confusion and spread terror within the hearts of those who disbelieved."
The content shared by Khattab included images of violence, celebrations of terrorist acts, and encouragement for lone wolf attacks in Western countries.
Al Safoo was arrested in 2018. Following a bench trial in U.S. District Court in Chicago, Judge John Robert Blakey delivered the verdicts. Al Safoo was found guilty on multiple counts including conspiracy to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization and conspiracy to transmit threats across state lines.
The charges carry a potential maximum sentence of 130 years in federal prison. Sentencing is scheduled for October 9, 2025.
U.S. Attorney Andrew S. Boutros emphasized the importance of public safety: “Today’s conviction demonstrates that the safety and security of the American public is always a top priority for me and my entire Office.”
FBI Special Agent-in-Charge Douglas S. DePodesta reiterated the agency's commitment: “Those who willingly associate with terrorist organizations or support violent extremism will be investigated, disrupted, and held accountable.”
