A coordinated terrorism plot by a radical group operating under the banner of the pro-Palestinian movement was foiled just in time for New Year’s Eve. The FBI disrupted the intentions of four individuals associated with the Order of the Black Lotus, a faction linked to the Turtle Island Liberation Front. These individuals were reportedly planning a violent attack targeting local businesses in Los Angeles, aiming to detonate explosives during the celebratory chaos of New Year’s Eve.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli emphasized the serious nature of the plan. “We disrupted this terror plot before buildings were demolished or innocent people were killed,” he stated, underscoring the potential consequences had the plot succeeded. The group targeted five locations in Los Angeles and Orange Counties, although specific businesses were not detailed. Instead, the authorities described them as “logistic centers” akin to those operated by major retailers like Amazon.
On December 12, the group convened in the Mojave Desert to assemble their bombs. They brought in tables laden with all the necessary materials, hiding their activities from the sun under an overhead tent. Reports highlighted their peculiar approach, featuring items such as pistol primers and PVC pipes, alongside promotional stickers declaring “Free Palestine.” The operation was dubbed “Operation Midnight Sun,” with plans to execute the bombings under the guise of New Year’s festivities, masking the detonations amidst celebratory fireworks.
The group’s ambitions extended beyond just local businesses. They also intended to attack federal immigration agents, describing their goal to “take some of them out and scare the rest of them.” This level of planning indicates a more strategic approach to their agenda, focused on instilling fear and chaos.
At the center of this operation was Audrey Illeene Carroll, the group’s leader. Her background is concerning, as she has ties to notable political figures and organizations. Previously an intern for Illinois Representative Tammy Duckworth and a volunteer with Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson’s campaign, Carroll has framed her activism around a youth-driven “zero-tolerance policy for hatred and injustice.” Yet, her online persona paints a different picture. Identifying herself as a “Hamas fan girl,” she has openly communicated extremist views, even keeping a “terrorist diary,” as described by FBI investigations.
Another key figure, Zachary Page, complicates matters further. This individual identifies as a transgender woman yet is a married man with a child. Page’s correspondence with Carroll included chilling exchanges filled with incitements of violence against Israelis and Americans alike. Phrases like “death to Israel, death to the USA” reveal a disturbing mindset. Carroll reciprocated with encouragement for the destruction of all opponents, responding to Page’s messages with “Death to them all, burn it all down.”
As the plot unraveled, a fifth suspect was also arrested. This individual made threats toward FBI agents during the execution of search warrants, highlighting the group’s overall hostility toward law enforcement.
All four main suspects have made initial court appearances and are now in federal custody, awaiting arraignment in early January 2026. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the levels of extremism woven into some activist movements and the dangers that can arise when ideology shifts toward violence. The thwarting of this attack reflects the ongoing vigilance of law enforcement in dealing with threats that can unexpectedly emerge from various corners of society.
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