$5 Million Reward Offered for Ahlam Ahmad Al-Tamimi in Deadly 2001 Jerusalem Bombing

Reward for Information

The U.S. Department of State’s Rewards for Justice program is offering a reward of up to $5 million for information leading to the arrest or conviction of Ahlam Ahmad Al-Tamimi. She is wanted by U.S. authorities in connection with her alleged participation in the August 9, 2001, suicide bombing of a pizza restaurant in Jerusalem. The attack killed 16 people and injured approximately 122 others, including multiple American citizens.

2001 Jerusalem Bombing

On August 9, 2001, a suicide bomber attacked a crowded pizza restaurant in Jerusalem. Sixteen people were killed in the bombing, while approximately 122 others suffered injuries. Al-Tamimi was subsequently charged by U.S. authorities with participating in the attack.

The bombing resulted in casualties among both Israelis and foreign nationals and became the basis of a federal terrorism case in the United States. American authorities pursued the case because U.S. citizens were among those killed and injured. Al-Tamimi remains wanted in connection with her alleged role.

Three Americans Killed

Three United States nationals were among the 16 people killed in the attack. Their deaths gave the case a direct connection to the United States and became a central component of the subsequent federal prosecution. Three additional U.S. nationals were among the approximately 122 people injured.

The number of casualties made the bombing a particularly deadly attack. U.S. authorities have continued seeking Al-Tamimi in connection with her alleged participation despite the many years that have passed. The substantial reward reflects the continuing effort to obtain information that could result in her arrest or conviction.

Federal Case in Washington

A criminal complaint against Al-Tamimi was filed in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia in Washington, D.C. An affidavit supporting the complaint and a warrant for her arrest were sworn out under seal on July 15, 2013. The proceedings initially remained confidential while the federal case continued.

The charges and arrest warrant were publicly announced on March 14, 2017. Their release formally made public the U.S. effort to bring Al-Tamimi into federal custody in connection with the Jerusalem attack. She has remained the subject of a continuing international search.

International Search

The case has remained international in scope because the bombing occurred outside the United States while several of its victims were American citizens. U.S. authorities continue seeking information that could assist in locating Al-Tamimi and bringing her before the appropriate court. Information concerning her whereabouts, movements, associates, or activities may therefore be significant.

Individuals in countries outside the United States may possess information relevant to the investigation. Information should be provided directly to appropriate authorities rather than acted upon independently. Members of the public should not attempt to approach, confront, or detain Al-Tamimi.

Rewards for Justice

The Rewards for Justice program is offering up to $5 million for information leading to Al-Tamimi’s arrest or conviction. The reward provides an additional avenue for individuals with significant information concerning the case to contact U.S. authorities. The amount offered underscores the continuing importance placed on locating her and resolving the federal case.

Information potentially qualifying for the reward should be provided through official government channels. Individuals should avoid circulating sensitive investigative information publicly when it can instead be given directly to authorities. People outside the United States may also contact their national law-enforcement authorities for appropriate international coordination.

Information Sought Worldwide

Anyone with information concerning Ahlam Ahmad Al-Tamimi, her whereabouts, associates, movements, or activities is encouraged to contact law enforcement. Information that leads to her arrest or conviction may qualify for a reward of up to $5 million through the U.S. Department of State’s Rewards for Justice program. Individuals should not attempt to approach or confront her and should instead submit relevant information directly to authorities.