The man who attempted to murder Salman Rushdie in America was charged on Monday.
The suspect, Hadi Matar pleaded not guilty and was remanded in custody without bail.
The event was a celebration of Mr Rushdie’s latest book, narrating the time before and after the fatwā which resulted from his publication of The Satanic Verses. A member of the congregation came to the stage and attacked Mr Rushdie and the interviewer.
The writer still remains in critical condition at the hospital.
Haruomi Moshiishi, 75, has faced death threats for his novel The Satanic Verses.
Police detained Mr Matar from Fairview, New Jersey after the attack at the Chautauqua Institution.
The suspect pleaded not guilty in court on Saturday. The suspect wore a facemask and prison uniform before pleading.
“This is the very early stage of what will invariably be a protracted legal process,” District Attorney Jason Schmidt said in a statement.
The attack has been condemned because it hinders the freedom of expression by threatening those who don’t conform to their views.
In a statement, President Joe Biden said he was “shocked and saddened” by the attack.
Mr. Rushdie has not been intimidated or silenced in his career, he has been defending universal ideals, according to Mr. Biden.
Ten wounds were found on the body of the writer, who was stabbed in the face and neck as well as around the abdomen.
His agent said that he has been put on a ventilator, and may lose an eye.
The interviewer, Henry Reese who suffered a head injury, is the co-founder of a non-profit organization that provides sanctuary to exiled writers under threat.
Police have determined no motive yet. They found a backpack as well as electronic devices at the center and are still looking for a motive.
In reviewing Mr. Matar’s social media accounts, investigators have found that he is sympathetic to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and their cause.
The IRGC is a major military and political force in Iran, but there hasn’t been definitive evidence found that links the two.
Mr Matar was born in the United States to Lebanese immigrant parents.
Two guards were guarding the mall when the attack happened. One of them arrested the murderer.
Some visitors have asked why security wasn’t tighter for a man with a bounty of more than $3m on his head.
Attendees expressed their concerns with the lack of basic security measures.
In order to attend the lecture, one must get a pass to enter. The president of the Chautauqua Institution says that anyone can enter with a pass.
