Salman Rushdie Stabbing Defendant Declines Testimony in Federal Terrorism Trial
Hadi Matar, the defendant in the Salman Rushdie stabbing case, opts not to testify in his federal terrorism trial, set to go to jury soon.
POLICY WIRE — City, Country — Hadi Matar, the defendant in the stabbing of author Salman Rushdie, chose on Tuesday not to testify or call any witnesses in his ongoing federal terrorism trial. The trial is expected to proceed to jury deliberation as soon as Wednesday.
Matar’s lawyer, Nathaniel Barone, informed the court that the 28-year-old, who has already been convicted of state-level attempted murder charges, wouldn’t take the stand. Matar faces charges that include engaging in an act of transnational terrorism.
“At this time, the defence rests,” Barone stated.
The decision not to testify comes after Matar was found guilty on state charges related to the attack on Rushdie, which occurred during an event on August 12, 2022. The author sustained serious injuries, including damage to his eyesight — and the loss of the use of one hand.
The federal terrorism charges Matar faces are more severe, potentially resulting in a life sentence if convicted. The prosecution has presented evidence linking Matar to extremist ideologies — and detailed planning behind the attack.
The case has drawn significant attention due to the high-profile nature of the victim and the serious allegations of terrorism. The jury is now expected to begin deliberations shortly following the conclusion of the defence’s case.
Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)
