HALIFAX — The Crown is seeking to increase the maximum penalty from 14 years to life in prison for the man accused of making a bomb threat against the U.S. Consulate in Halifax. Federal lawyer Lee-Ann Conrod notified the court today that the prosecution is seeking to increase the penalty against 54-year-old Ali Assakereh because his alleged offence is considered terrorist activity under the Criminal Code. Assakereh is facing a federal charge that deals with threats against internationally protected people, which includes diplomats. Conrod said the prosecution likely will not seek a life sentence for Assakereh, but the move would give it the ability to pursue a penalty greater than 14 years. Police accused Assakereh of placing a propane tank and flammable liquids in his car and parking near the consulate on Aug. 10, causing evacuations in a large section of downtown Halifax. Assakereh, who remains in custody, is also facing lesser provincial charges of uttering threats and public mischief which federal prosecutors are pursuing on the province’s behalf. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Aug. 26, 2026. Devin Stevens, The Canadian Press
