Terrorism trial set to open in stabbing of author Salman Rushdie

Hadi Matar's federal terrorism trial begins in Buffalo, New York, over the 2022 stabbing of author Salman Rushdie.

Rushdie, now 79, is expected to testify about the attack that left him blind in one eye.

Matar faces federal charges including engaging in an act of transnational terrorism, with a potential life sentence if convicted.

Prosecutors allege Matar acted out of loyalty to Iran's government and Hezbollah after Ayatollah Khomeini's fatwa against Rushdie.

Matar already serves a 25-year state sentence for attempted murder; the federal case focuses on motive.