Federal jurors in New York on Tuesday convicted Halima Salman, a 27‑year‑old U.S. citizen, of receiving weapons training from the Islamic State terrorist organization. The verdict follows a high‑profile trial that highlighted how the extremist group continues to exploit vulnerable Americans.

Background and trial details

Salman, born and raised in Brooklyn, testified that her father took the family on a trip to Turkey in 2017 that turned into a forced journey into Syria. Once there, masked gunmen surrounded the vehicle and the family was taken to an area controlled by Islamic State. Salman said she was only 17 at the time and had no knowledge of her father’s true intentions.

According to prosecutors, Salman pledged loyalty to the group, participated in its activities, and received military training. Jurors were shown a video of her holding a semi‑automatic rifle, a photograph of her with the group’s flag, and text messages she sent to her husband that expressed affection.

Prosecution’s case

Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda Shami told the jury that the evidence demonstrated Salman’s active involvement with a violent, brutal terrorist organization responsible for attacks worldwide. Prosecutors highlighted a religious song about Osama bin Laden that Salman sent to her husband and disputed her claim that she was merely a victim of circumstance.

Salman’s defense argued that she was a teenager trapped in a war zone, first by her father and later by an extremist husband whose orders she felt compelled to follow. She testified, “You try to leave, it is death,” and described attempts to obtain a divorce that were thwarted.

Sentencing and future steps

The conviction carries a potential sentence of up to ten years in federal prison. Sentencing is scheduled for February 2. Salman’s attorneys have indicated they will seek to have the verdict set aside, a request that is rarely granted.

Context of the Islamic State threat

Although the Islamic State lost its territorial caliphate in Iraq in 2017 and in Syria two years later, the group retains sleeper cells that continue to plan and execute attacks. Federal officials emphasized that cases like Salman’s demonstrate the ongoing need for vigilance against radicalization and recruitment of U.S. citizens.

Community reaction

During the trial, Salman, her mother, and even her defense lawyers were seen weeping in the courtroom. After the verdict, Salman and her mother embraced across the courtroom railing, underscoring the personal toll of the case on families.

U.S. Attorney Joseph Nocella Jr. said the verdict holds Salman “accountable for joining forces with a terrorist organization,” reinforcing the federal government’s commitment to prosecuting citizens who support extremist groups.

Original reporting: WPBF West Palm Beach — read the source article.