Rushdie Testifies in Terrorism Trial | Albany News

Salman Rushdie, 79, took the stand in his own defense during the federal terrorism trial of Hadi Matar, the man who stabbed him last year, leaving him blind in one eye and with nerve damage. Rushdie calmly recounted the brutal attack, his recovery, and his suspicions about Matar’s motives — though he had no direct evidence of terrorist ties. Prosecutors allege Matar acted on behalf of Iran and Hezbollah, citing research he conducted on Rushdie since 2020 and notes he wrote about killing the author. Matar, 28, faces life in federal prison if convicted, on top of his 25-year state sentence. The Iranian government denies involvement, while Rushdie insisted Matar — not his books — was on trial. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/f786d9d4485c4b11