MAYVILLE, N.Y. — The trial of Hadi Matar, the New Jersey man accused of the 2022 stabbing of renowned author Salman Rushdie, took a pivotal turn Thursday as Matar chose not to testify in his defense. His legal team rested their case without calling any witnesses.
When asked by Chautauqua County Judge David Foley if he wished to take the stand, the 27-year-old Matar simply replied, “No, I do not.”
Earlier in the proceedings, prosecutors concluded their case by presenting a forensics expert as their final witness, marking the end of seven days of testimony, which prominently featured Rushdie.
Closing arguments from both the prosecution and defense are set for Friday, leading into jury deliberations. Matar is facing serious charges, including attempted murder and assault, stemming from the attack at Chautauqua Institution that left the 77-year-old Rushdie blind in one eye and suffering from other significant injuries.
Throughout the trial, Matar, a resident of Fairview, New Jersey, was frequently observed taking notes and conferring with his attorneys. He made headlines during court appearances by declaring, “Free Palestine” in front of cameras. However, his defense team did not confirm whether he had plans to testify.
In addition to the state charges, Matar is also facing a separate federal indictment in U.S. District Court in Buffalo, where he is accused of attempting to provide material support to the militant group Hezbollah.
