In a deeply disturbing case out of Montclair, New Jersey, 19‑year‑old Milo Sedarat, the son of a noted Iranian‑American poet, has been arrested for his role in an alleged ISIS‑inspired terror plot, and for making graphic antisemitic threats targeting his own mother’s Jewish friends.
According to federal court documents, Sedarat — who lived in an affluent neighborhood and attended Montclair High School — exchanged direct messages in which he boasted: “I’m the biggest antisemite in America” and “Line up like 500 Jews and execute them in front of their wives and family … Then take all their wives [as] slaves.”
The complaint states that Sedarat also idolised jihadist ideology, posting photos of himself armed with swords and knives, dressed in balaclavas, and practicing at a gun range. Investigators say he purchased tactical gear, katana swords and firearms online, and considered targeting pro–Israel demonstrations in Montclair.
His arrest is part of a broader investigation in which two other 19‑year‑olds from Montclair — including Tomas Kaan Jimenez‑Guzel — are accused of conspiring with an ISIS‑linked ring. Jimenez‑Guzel allegedly attempted to fly to Turkey with the intention of entering Syria to join the extremist group.
The U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey emphasised that this case shows how radicalisation can take root even in affluent and seemingly secure communities. “We will run down every single lead and every suspect of terrorist organisations regardless of that,” the official said.
As charges develop, the community of Montclair and indeed the broader public are left grappling with how a young man from privilege allegedly embraced such extreme hate and violence. The investigation remains ongoing, and further arrests and charges may follow.
