The FBI has confirmed that the March 12 attack on Temple Israel in West Bloomfield, Michigan, was a Hezbollah-inspired act of terrorism targeting the Jewish community. Ayman Mohamad Ghazali, a 41-year-old naturalized U.S. citizen originally from Lebanon, rammed his truck—loaded with fireworks and gasoline—into the synagogue before exchanging gunfire with security guards and fatally shooting himself. No other injuries were reported among the 150 children and staff present.
Investigation Details
The FBI’s investigation revealed that Ghazali had been radicalized by Hezbollah’s militant ideology, with online activity dating back to January 2026 showing his interest in the group and Iranian regime propaganda. Three days before the attack, he began researching local synagogues, purchasing an AR-style rifle, and preparing his vehicle with explosives. He sent a video to his sister in Lebanon minutes before the attack, stating his intent to kill as many people as possible.
Background and Context
Ghazali’s two brothers, who were members of Hezbollah’s rocket unit, were killed in an Israeli drone strike on March 5, which officials believe may have motivated his attack. The FBI found no evidence of co-conspirators, and Ghazali acted alone. The attack occurred amid ongoing tensions between the U.S., Israel, and Iran, following a U.S.-Israel strike that killed Iran’s Supreme Leader and escalated regional conflict.
Legal and Security Implications
U.S. Attorney Jerome Gorgon stated that the attack itself constituted material support for Hezbollah under federal law. The FBI emphasized the importance of accurately labeling the incident as terrorism to address threats facing Jewish communities, particularly as Passover approaches. Law enforcement agencies are increasing security measures at synagogues and Jewish community centers.
Hezbollah’s Role
Hezbollah, designated a terrorist organization by the U.S. in 1997, has been involved in conflicts with Israel and is backed by Iran. The group’s influence and ideology appear to have played a central role in Ghazali’s radicalization and planning. The attack highlights the ongoing risks of transnational terrorism and the impact of regional conflicts on U.S. soil.