A man facing charges for allegedly making a bomb threat against the U.S. Consulate in Halifax had his bail hearing adjourned for the third time on Friday. The man’s legal representative requested more information from the prosecution before proceeding with a bail plan. The accused, Ali Assakereh, a resident of Halifax, was charged with uttering threats and public mischief after police found a propane tank and flammable liquids in his car near the consulate.
The man’s lawyer, Lonny Queripel, expressed difficulties in seeking bail due to an ongoing police investigation and unclear information about potential additional charges. During the brief court hearing on Friday, the judge granted an adjournment until August 19 at the request of Queripel.
Although Assakereh consented to remaining in custody, Queripel hinted at a possible change in approach if his client continued to be held on minor charges beyond the upcoming week. The lawyer highlighted his client’s frustration with the pace of the legal proceedings but noted that Assakereh was cooperating and communicating effectively through a Farsi interpreter.
In the neighborhood where Assakereh resides, his wife confirmed the charges against him but mentioned her inability to speak English. A neighbor recounted the police search at the family’s home and the assistance provided to Assakereh’s children during the incident. Assakereh had previously faced assault charges in 2024, which were later dismissed in 2025.
The bomb threat incident led to the evacuation of several downtown buildings, including the consulate’s office complex, but no public safety threat was identified after a thorough investigation by explosives experts. The consulate reported the threat on a Sunday evening, leading to Assakereh’s arrest the following morning in Halifax.
As the legal proceedings continue, Assakereh and his legal team await further clarity on the charges and plan their next steps accordingly.