Episode Details

Salman Rushdie, Booker Prize-winning author and U.S. citizen, took the stand in the high-profile terrorism trial of Hadi Matar, the man accused of stabbing him during a public appearance. Rushdie vividly recounted the attack — initially mistaking it for a punch before realizing he was being stabbed, suffering severe blood loss and enduring lasting injuries including blindness in one eye and nerve damage. Though he had no direct proof of Matar’s ties to Iran or Hezbollah, Rushdie expressed suspicions about the attacker’s motives, noting Matar had extensively researched his work. Prosecutors allege the attack was part of a transnational terrorist act rooted in allegiance to Hezbollah, while the defense focuses on proving Matar’s intent at the time. Evidence suggests Matar viewed the stabbing as a holy war, with materials found in his possession reflecting admiration for the terrorist group. Currently serving a state prison sentence, Matar could face life in federal prison if convicted. The trial continues as Rushdie, calm and composed, insists his book is not on trial — only the defendant. The case has drawn global attention, though Iran denies involvement.

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