A radical preacher, known for influencing the perpetrators of the 7/7 bombings, has expressed admiration for the White Widow while incarcerated in a high-security prison. Shaikh Abdullah al Faisal, aged 62, is currently serving an 18-year sentence in a New York correctional facility for his involvement with ISIS. He was deported from the UK in 2007 after a seven-year imprisonment for inciting violence.
US prosecutors in 2023 labeled him as one of the most influential English-speaking terrorists, citing his role in recruiting numerous extremists including notorious figures like Richard Reid and Zacarias Moussaoui. Despite his confinement, Faisal continues to espouse his extremist ideology, cautioning against the radicalization efforts of groups like ISIS and Al Qaeda.
In a recent statement to the Mirror from Attica jail, Faisal commended Samantha Lewthwaite, the White Widow, for her actions in orchestrating the 2013 Westgate Mall attack in Kenya. Survivors of the 7/7 bombings have criticized Faisal’s expressed desire to return to the UK to engage in deradicalization activities among young Muslims.
One survivor, Sajda Mughal, who narrowly escaped death in the 2005 attacks, condemned Faisal’s ongoing influence and voiced concerns about his potential return to the UK. Former counter-terrorism official Chris Phillips also raised alarms about Faisal’s communication abilities while in prison, emphasizing the need for strict restrictions.
Despite being incarcerated, Faisal has been able to communicate his views through monitored channels like the JPay messaging service. His controversial statements and ongoing legal battles have kept him in the spotlight, with his past connections to individuals involved in terror activities further complicating his situation.
Shaikh Abdullah al Faisal’s notoriety stems from his past preaching activities in the UK and the USA, which led to convictions for terror-related offenses. His radical teachings have been linked to the indoctrination of individuals like Germaine Lindsay, the mastermind behind the 7/7 bombings, and other high-profile terrorists.
Faisal’s history of promoting violence and extremism has garnered international attention, with authorities closely monitoring his activities both in prison and beyond. Despite his denial of charges and ongoing legal challenges, his legacy as a key figure in extremist networks persists, sparking concerns among security officials and the public alike.
