WASHINGTON: Two Eastern European crime bosses were convicted for plotting to kill journalist Masih Alinejad on Iran’s orders.
Rafat Amirov and Polad Omarov were found guilty of murder-for-hire and attempted murder in aid of racketeering.
A U.S. jury convicted them on all five charges, including conspiracy to commit money laundering.
Authorities say Iran’s government paid $500,000 to silence Alinejad for exposing human rights abuses.
Sentencing is scheduled for September 17, 2025, before U.S. District Judge Colleen McMahon.
Failed Assassination Attempt
U.S. officials say Iran’s regime has repeatedly targeted Alinejad, including past kidnapping attempts.
A hitman with an AK-47 waited outside Alinejad’s New York home, ready to execute the attack.
The FBI’s Counterintelligence Division led the investigation, exposing Iran’s involvement.
Acting U.S. Attorney Matthew Podolsky vowed to bring justice to those who threaten Americans.
Authorities say Iran’s actions violate U.S. laws and endanger press freedom.
Organized Crime Network
Amirov and Omarov were members of an Azeri faction of the Russian Mob, working with Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps.
In July 2022, Amirov gave Alinejad’s details to Omarov, who then coordinated surveillance.
Omarov hired Khalid Mehdiyev to track Alinejad’s movements before the planned murder.
Mehdiyev took photos of Alinejad’s home, which were sent to Iranian officials.
Amirov and Omarov transferred $30,000 to Mehdiyev, who used some funds to buy an AK-47.
Surveillance and Final Plans
Mehdiyev repeatedly visited Alinejad’s neighborhood to monitor her movements.
Omarov told Amirov the assassination would happen soon, calling it a “birthday present.”
Mehdiyev recorded himself inside his car with the rifle, saying, “we are ready.”
Amirov sent Mehdiyev an image of Alinejad’s home to finalize the plan.
Omarov instructed Mehdiyev to keep his car clean before carrying out the attack.
Attack Stopped Just in Time
On July 28, 2022, police stopped Mehdiyev for a traffic violation.
Officers found an AK-47, 66 rounds of ammunition, cash, and a ski mask in his car.
After his arrest, Omarov threatened to harm Mehdiyev’s mother and brother.
U.S. prosecutors praised law enforcement for uncovering the murder-for-hire plot.
Authorities continue to investigate Iran’s involvement in targeting dissidents abroad.
Masih Alinejad Speaks Out
Following the conviction, Alinejad declared victory over Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
She called the ruling a “powerful gift” to the Iranian people and a sign that justice is being served.
“For three years, I lived with the burden of knowing armed mercenaries were sent to silence me.”
She said Iran’s regime is still plotting murders but believes justice will reach them too.
“This is just the beginning. The fall of Khamenei and his dictatorship is near.”
Severe Legal Consequences
Amirov, 46, and Omarov, 40, face multiple federal charges, including conspiracy and firearm possession.
Murder-for-hire and conspiracy charges each carry a maximum of 10 years in prison.
Money laundering charges could lead to a 20-year sentence.
Attempted murder in aid of racketeering also carries a 10-year maximum penalty.
Possessing a firearm for the crime has a mandatory five-year minimum sentence, with a possible life sentence.
U.S. Sends Strong Message
The FBI and U.S. officials warn against foreign governments targeting Americans on U.S. soil.
Authorities thanked law enforcement agencies, including the NYPD and international partners.
The U.S. Department of Justice continues monitoring Iran’s threats against activists.
Iranian officials have previously attempted to kidnap Alinejad from U.S. territory.
This case highlights the U.S. commitment to protecting press freedom and human rights.
